Microsoft has announced the launch of Office 2024 this week, a new standalone version suited for Mac and PC users. Microsoft announced the news on their website. Office 2024 offers an alternative for users who prefer a one-time purchase over the subscription-based scheme of Microsoft 365.
The new release of Office 2024 includes several updates. Now, the users will be able to access updated versions of Excel, Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Outlook. However, these applications are available as “locked-in-time” versions, meaning that they won’t receive any ongoing feature updates like their Microsoft 365 counterparts.
PowerPoint, now, is equipped with new features like the “cameo” which allows users to embed a live camera feed directly into slides, and the “recording studio” for capturing narration, animations, transitions, and inking. Furthermore, Word and PowerPoint also have the new feature of liking and reacting to comments in collaborative documents.
Several improvements have been noted when it comes to Mac users in Office 2024, as mentioned by Microsoft themselves. The performance of Excel has improved, especially when working with multiple open workbooks. Meanwhile, Outlook for Mac introduces customizable swipe gestures that work with Magic Trackpad and Magic Mouse to enhance email management.
Microsoft further reported that Mac users will also benefit from an enhanced inking experience in OneNote, where users can access a full-screen pen-focused view. The suite now supports version 1.4 of the OpenDocument format or ODF across various Mircosoft applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Office 2024 supports macOS Ventura, macOS Sonoma, and macOS Sequoia. Both a Microsoft account and an internet connection are required to install and activate the suite of apps. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote are included in Office Home 2024, priced at $149.99. Outlook is added to Office Home & Business 2024, which costs $249.99 and grants commercial use rights. Both editions are available now from retailers worldwide and via the Microsoft website.
Although Office 2024 offers a non-subscription option, Microsoft still recommends Microsoft 365 as the best option for users who want the newest features and frequent updates. However, Mac users who prefer a conventional licensing model have a familiar alternative in the standalone Office 2024.
