How to Restore the Previous Microsoft 365 Office Interface
Question details
The user wants to revert the newly updated Microsoft 365 Office interface back to its previous classic design.
- Product
- Microsoft 365
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Microsoft 365 automatically applied a new interface update, and the user prefers the familiar layout of the older version.
- Observed behavior
- The Office application displays a newer design associated with Windows 11, and there is no visible setting to permanently restore the previous interface.
Ensure your Microsoft 365 applications are fully updated before proceeding, as Microsoft occasionally adds or removes experimental interface toggles in newer builds.
Check for an Interface Toggle and Submit Feedback
While a permanent rollback is not officially supported, you can check your build for a temporary toggle and send feedback directly to Microsoft developers.
Microsoft frequently updates the Office UI to align with the latest aesthetic standards. Currently, there is no permanent built-in option to revert to the old design. However, during transitional phases, temporary toggles sometimes appear in the application window.
Open a Microsoft Office application like Word or Excel. Check the upper-right corner of the title bar for a megaphone icon or a 'Coming Soon' toggle. If available, switch it off and restart the application to revert the design.
If no toggle is present, click on the 'File' tab located in the top-left corner of the application.
Select 'Feedback' from the bottom-left menu pane, then click on 'I Don't Like Something' (the frowning face icon) to let Microsoft know you prefer the previous interface layout.
Try WPS Office for a Classic, Customizable Workspace
If you are frustrated by forced visual changes and missing features in Microsoft 365, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible workspace with a familiar interface that you can customize to your liking.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download and install the free software on your device.
- 2. Choose Your Interface: Launch WPS Office and navigate to the settings to select the classic interface layout that best suits your workflow.
- 3. Open Your Documents: Open your existing Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files directly in WPS Office without worrying about formatting issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my Microsoft Word interface change suddenly?
Microsoft 365 automatically updates its applications to match newer design languages, such as those introduced with Windows 11. This rollout happens in the background, which is why the visual changes often appear suddenly without a prompt.
Can I uninstall recent Office updates to get the old UI back?
While advanced users can technically revert to an older build using the Office Deployment Tool, it is highly discouraged. Reverting updates exposes your system to security vulnerabilities, and Office will eventually try to auto-update again.
Will Microsoft bring back the old Office interface permanently?
Microsoft typically moves forward with new design standards to unify its software ecosystem and rarely brings back older interfaces permanently. However, strong user feedback submitted through the Office app can sometimes lead to more personalization options in future updates.
