Fix Microsoft AutoUpdate Not Listing Excel or Word on Mac
Question details
Users are unable to see Excel, Word, or PowerPoint updates in Microsoft AutoUpdate on Mac, specifically when trying to access new features like Power Query Editor or Microsoft 365 Insider Beta builds.
- Product
- Microsoft Office for Mac
- Device & OS
- macOS
- Scenario
- Checking for application updates via Microsoft AutoUpdate to enable missing features.
- Observed behavior
- Microsoft AutoUpdate indicates there are no updates available, or fails to list the core Office applications, even when users switch update channels.
Verify which version of Microsoft Office you currently have installed, as your software may already be up to date for your selected update channel.
Verify Current Office Version and Update Channel
Check if your Office applications are already on the latest version, which explains why no updates appear in Microsoft AutoUpdate.
If you are trying to access features like the Power Query Editor in Excel, verify your installed version. Version 16.62 and later already support this feature, meaning AutoUpdate will not show newer updates if this version is current for your channel.
Launch Microsoft Excel, Word, or PowerPoint on your Mac.
Click on the application name (e.g., 'Excel') in the top menu bar, then select 'About Microsoft Excel'. Note the version number displayed in the dialog box.
Check the official Office for Mac update history online to confirm if your version matches the latest release for your channel.
Enroll in the Microsoft 365 Insider Beta Channel
Switch your update channel if you want to test upcoming features before they are widely released.
Try WPS Office for Mac as a Lightweight Alternative
If Microsoft AutoUpdate is frequently causing issues or failing to update your applications, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a fast, unified, and free alternative with excellent compatibility for all your Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files.
- 1. Download the installer: Visit the WPS Office website and download the free macOS version.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Open the downloaded package and follow the on-screen instructions to install the software on your Mac.
- 3. Open your files: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files directly without any formatting loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Microsoft AutoUpdate saying there are no updates available?
If your Office applications are already on the latest version available for your chosen update channel (e.g., version 16.62), AutoUpdate will correctly state that no new updates are available.
Is Power Query available on Excel for Mac?
Yes, the Power Query Editor is fully supported in Excel for Mac starting from version 16.62. You can access it through the relevant Data tools on the ribbon.
Are Microsoft 365 Insider Beta builds safe to use for daily work?
No, Insider Beta builds are intended for testing and early access. They can be unstable and may contain bugs, so they are not recommended for general production or daily business use.
How can I check my current Office for Mac version?
Open any Office application like Excel, click on the application name in the top menu bar, and select 'About Microsoft Excel'. The dialog box will display your current version and license type.
