Microsoft has stirred up some confusion lately. Posts on platforms like Reddit, Hacker News, and X claim that Microsoft Office has been renamed to Microsoft 365 Copilot. But hold on—Office is not getting a new name.
The mix-up stems from Microsoft’s Office.com site. For about a year, it’s been promoting the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, a tool that gives access to Copilot and all the Office applications. Last year, Microsoft rebranded the Office app to Microsoft 365 app. They made another change in November 2024, when the new icon and name—Microsoft 365 Copilot—rolled out on various platforms.
When you visit Office.com, you’ll see a message stating that the app was “formerly Office.” This app first came out in 2019 to encourage people to use online versions of Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The renaming can be confusing, especially since the basic suite is still under the name Microsoft 365, which hasn’t changed since 2022.
Interestingly, you can also buy Microsoft Office 2024, a standalone version without the cloud features and updates that come with a Microsoft 365 subscription.
I reached out to Microsoft for a comment on the confusion but didn’t get a response. It’s evident that Microsoft’s branding strategy can leave users scratching their heads. With so many changes, who knows what they’ll do next?
Recent studies indicate that many consumers feel overwhelmed by tech branding contradictions. A survey from Tech Research Group shows that 68% of people struggle to understand tech companies’ product names. As technology evolves, clarity in branding is more important than ever. Companies like Microsoft must ensure users grasp the distinctions between products to avoid frustration.
In a world where technology influences our daily lives, clear communication is key. Let’s hope Microsoft finds a way to simplify its messaging in the future.
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