By asahifile 
Microsoft Releases Office 2024: The Latest Buy-Once-Own-Forever Version
Microsoft has officially launched Office 2024, a new version of its suite of applications, designed for those who prefer a standalone purchase rather than committing to a subscription model. This release continues Microsoft’s tradition of offering a “locked-in-time” update, allowing users to buy once and use forever, even amid its push towards Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
What’s New in Office 2024?
For end users, there are two primary offerings:
- Office Home 2024 is priced at $149.99 and includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and OneNote.
- Office Home & Business 2024 costs $249.99, adding Outlook and commercial use rights.
Both versions are licensed for a single PC or Mac.
Microsoft is also releasing new Office Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) products aimed at businesses. The Office LTSC Professional Plus 2024 for Windows will feature the Access database along with the typical suite of applications.
Key Updates Since Office 2021
The new Office lineup incorporates updates made available since Office 2021, with a focus on enhancements and new features that cater to user needs. However, it’s important to note that these perpetual licenses won’t receive ongoing feature updates or real-time collaboration tools, nor will they support the new Copilot AI assistant.
Support and Compatibility
Microsoft has committed to supporting Office 2024 with bug fixes and security updates until October 9, 2029. Users can run these applications on Windows 10 and 11, with Windows 10 support available until its end-of-support date on October 14, 2025. The Mac version will support “the three most recent versions of macOS,” ensuring compatibility with the latest systems.
Future of Office
While Microsoft has confirmed that Office 2024 is not the final version users can expect, there may be another standalone release in the future, much like the language used during previous releases.
This continues Microsoft’s strategy to balance between subscription services and traditional purchasing options, catering to different user preferences.
Conclusion
Office 2024 presents an option for users who prefer a perpetual license, alongside feature updates that improve functionality. As Microsoft navigates the landscape of software distribution, this release reaffirms its commitment to offering choice within its product range, making it a relevant option for consumers looking for reliable productivity software.
Whether you’re a business user or someone who prefers traditional software without ongoing fees, Office 2024 offers a solid choice for productivity needs.