Microsoft has started testing advertisements in its Office applications in India, targeting users of the free versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Some features are restricted for users who do not opt for a paid plan.
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- Microsoft is experimenting with advertisements in the free versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint in India.
- Some features are restricted to users who subscribe to the paid Office plans.
- The company is not making an official announcement, but historical trends indicate that it may occur soon.
Microsoft is planning to release a trial version of Office featuring advertisements.
Office versions that feature advertisements offer only the fundamental elements of the software. For instance, in Word, users can create and format basic texts, but features like columns, alignment, line spacing, and borders are restricted. Moreover, certain advanced functions such as Word’s “Read Aloud” tool are exclusive to Microsoft 365 subscribers.
Advanced functions such as conditional formatting and data analysis are unavailable in Excel, while PowerPoint subscribers with a paid plan have access to features like SmartArt and narration.
In addition, there are advertisements that pop up on various parts of the screen while using the program. These ads do not come from external companies, but are instead from other Microsoft services like ClipChamp, a video editing tool.
Microsoft is testing a strategy that aligns with the Software as a Service (SaaS) model, despite no current global release plans. The company has previously attempted to incorporate ads in different parts of Windows.
Ad strategies are currently trending, with streaming services like Netflix and Prime Video introducing cheaper subscription options that include advertisements.
Is it fair to pay for a service and still be subjected to advertisements? Share your thoughts!
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