Microsoft informed that starting at the end of January 2026, users will need at least version 16.0.18827.20202 of Microsoft 365 Apps to continue using certain features.
Earlier versions will no longer support the following features:
- Read Aloud
- Dictation
- Transcription
Admins can check which clients are impacted using the Apps Health overview in the Microsoft 365 Apps Admin Center.
Version 16.0.18827.20202 was released on 8 July in the Monthly Enterprise Channel.
Timeline
- Commercial customers: End of January 2026
- GCC, GCC High, and DoD customers: End of March 2026
Impact for your users
Devices running earlier versions than 16.0.18827.20202 will lose access to the affected features. Users on supported versions will experience no changes.
- Read Aloud
Read Aloud lets Word read text aloud. It can be used on its own or within Immersive Reader in Word for Windows and Mac.
- Dictation
Dictation uses speech-to-text to create content in Microsoft 365 with a microphone and internet connection. It’s a quick way to capture thoughts, draft text, and take notes.
- Transcription
The Transcribe feature converts speech into a text transcript, separating speakers individually. After a meeting or interview, you can replay timestamped audio and edit the transcript as needed.
