Microsoft has announced Office 2019, the next major version of its classic productivity suite.
Without giving away too much in terms of features, Microsoft said the release is scheduled for the second half of 2018.
Naturally it’ll include apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook as well as the Exchange, SharePoint and Skype for Business servers.
Announcing the suite at Microsoft Ignite in Orlando, the firm said it will be will add new user and IT capabilities for customers who ‘aren’t yet ready for the cloud.’
Related: Office 2016 review
In a blog post on Tuesday, Office GM Jared Spataro wrote: “For example, new and improved inking features—like pressure sensitivity, tilt effects, and ink replay—will allow you to work more naturally.
“New formulas and charts will make data analysis for Excel more powerful. Visual animation features—like Morph and Zoom—will add polish to PowerPoint presentations. Server enhancements will include updates to IT manageability, usability, voice, and security.”
New features coming soon
New consumer focused features will likely be announced at the annual Microsoft Build conference, which will take place next spring (probably in May). The firm says previews for the new suite will begin reaching customers in mid-2018.
The last major version of Microsoft Office was Office 2016, which was released in 2015 alongside Windows 10.
What features would you like to see Office 2019 include? Is it still your go-to productivity suite? Or do you use the free online Office.com tools? Share your thoughts with us @TrustedReviews on Twitter.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
