Office for Mac Issues

When Will the Next Microsoft Office Version Be Available for Mac?

Maira Mehtab Sep 20, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is looking for information regarding the release date of the next perpetual version of Microsoft Office for Mac.

Product: Microsoft Office for Mac
Device & OS: macOS
Scenario: Planning to upgrade or purchase a new version of Microsoft Office for Mac rather than subscribing to Microsoft 365.
Observed behavior: Community support forums lack confirmed release dates for future perpetual versions, causing uncertainty about when to expect the next major release.

Before you start

Before checking for a new release, determine whether you are currently using a subscription-based Microsoft 365 plan or a one-time purchase perpetual license, as this dictates how you receive updates.

Solution 1Recommended

Understand the Difference Between Microsoft 365 and Perpetual Updates

Microsoft 365 subscribers receive continuous updates, while perpetual versions are released periodically with a fixed set of features.

Microsoft transitions most of its new features to Microsoft 365 first. If you are a subscriber, you do not need to wait for a new version release, as your software updates continuously.

Perpetual versions (like Office 2019 or Office 2021) are one-time purchases that eventually receive a bundle of features previously introduced to Microsoft 365 users.

Check your current license type

Open any Office application on your Mac (such as Word). Click on the 'Word' menu at the top left of your screen and select 'About Microsoft Word' to see if you have a Microsoft 365 Subscription or a standalone Retail License.

Continuous Updates: If you have Microsoft 365, you already have the latest version available.

Solution 2

Monitor Official Microsoft Announcements for Standalone Releases

Community forums typically do not have insider information on unannounced release dates for standalone Mac versions.

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1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the Mac version installer.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Microsoft 365 for Mac get updates before the standalone Office version?

Yes, Microsoft 365 is a subscription service that receives continuous feature updates as soon as they are tested and ready. Standalone (perpetual) versions only get a snapshot of these features at launch and do not receive major feature updates afterwards.

Will there be another one-time purchase version of Office for Mac?

Microsoft typically releases new perpetual versions every few years (e.g., Office 2019, Office 2021, Office 2024). However, exact release dates are only confirmed via official Microsoft press releases.

How do I update my current Microsoft Office for Mac?

To check for regular security and feature updates on your current version, open any Office app, go to the 'Help' menu at the top, and select 'Check for Updates' to launch the Microsoft AutoUpdate tool.

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