Microsoft Office for iPad and iPhone has been a big hit since its release last year. So far users did not need an Office 365 subscription to edit documents. Microsoft is changing that policy for the coming iPad Pro and other larger tablets.
With the decision Microsoft implements a new strategy, in which tablets larger than 10.1 inches will require an Office 365 plan to edit files.
The End User License Agreement for iOS sheds some more light on the issue:
“If you only use the application on devices with a screen less than or equal to 10.1 inches to view documents and perform core editing features, see Section C below. If you use the application on devices with a screen size less than or equal to 10.1 inches or devices with a screen size greater than 10.1 inches to unlock premium editing features in addition to the core features, see Sections A and B below to determine which section applies to your use of the application. If you are not a Microsoft Office 365 subscriber entitled to the rights under Sections A or B, see Section C below and note your use is limited to viewing and printing features.”
However, the move is not intended to discriminate Apple users. Microsoft’s Windows 10 Office Mobile apps and the versions for Android fall under the same restrictions.
EULA for Android:
“The free Microsoft Word app provides a core experience for viewing, creating and editing docs on devices with a screen size of 10.1 inches or smaller. You can unlock the full Word experience with an Office 365 subscription.”
EULA for Windows Store apps:
This version of Word is built for phones and tablets (with a screen size of 10.1 inches or smaller). On those devices you can view, create, and edit Word documents for free. You need a qualifying Office 365 subscription to use advanced features. Learn more at www.office.com/information.
On larger tablets, laptops, and desktops, you can view documents for free. A qualifying Office 365 subscription is required to create and edit documents. Office 365 also includes the latest desktop versions of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and Outlook – recommended for use on desktops and laptops.
So, to use editing features with Office Apps on larger tablets, you will need at least a Office 365 Personal subscription for $6.99 per month.
The limitation for big tablets like the iPad Pro means basically that mostly people who already are subscribed to Office 365 get the Office Apps for free. It´s hard to believe that tablet users are going to pay a monthly fee just to use Office on the go.
Source: Ars Technica
Last Updated on July 6, 2016 12:14 am CEST by WinBuzzer
