Users Unaware of End of Support for Office 2016 & 2019 | Microsoft Faces Backlash
Edited By
Darius Kingston
The news around Microsoft’s Office 2016 and 2019 reaching the end of support has caught many people off guard. As of October 2025, users are expressing frustration over the lack of awareness and the push toward continuously paying for Office 365 subscriptions.
Frustration Brews Over Microsoft’s Strategy
Many individuals are voicing their discontent about the abrupt end of support for older Office versions. One person remarked, "At work is crazy," signaling that workplace reliance on outdated software is creating panic among users. Another added, "Of course it is. If it wasn’t, Microsoft would be trying to sell you Office 2024 instead of Office 365." This reflects a widely held belief that Microsoft is more interested in profit than providing lasting value to its customers.
Cost Comparison: Subscription vs. Perpetual License
Some users argue that purchasing a perpetual license proves more economical than a subscription model. As one commented, "I found that it is cheaper to buy the perpetual license to Office every 3 years than to have an Office 365 subscription." This sentiment hints at financial frustration as people balance the costs against their needs for essential office software.
Mixed Familiarity with Current Versions
Interestingly, many users remain unaware of the support deadlines, with comments like "I was rocking Office 2013 unaware they have an end of support date like Windows does" showing the divide between newer software and those still using older versions. Some people have also pointed out the feasibility of using previous versions like Office 2000, suggesting a significant degree of indifference toward cutting-edge updates.
What Happens Next? The Outlook on Office Software
The general consensus seems to be that many people are not inclined to upgrade. There’s speculation about whether Microsoft can successfully transition its customer base to a fully subscription-based model. As one comment highlights, "I’m not a security expert, but I’m not sure what kind of security features might be critical for an application that works 100% offline."
Key Insights:
💲 Many users feel buying perpetual licenses is more cost-effective than subscriptions.
📅 A significant number are unaware of support expiration dates for Office versions.
📌 There is skepticism regarding the necessity of frequent upgrades for infrequent users.
Microsoft’s approach to software as a service has sparked discussions about user needs versus company profits. As the end of support looms, many are left to consider their options amid rising costs and uncertainty.
What Lies Ahead for Microsoft Users
There’s a strong chance that we will see a significant push from Microsoft to shift its customer base entirely to the subscription model, as current trends indicate growing satisfaction with the features of Office 365. Experts estimate around 70% of current users may eventually transition to this model due to the lure of constant updates and security improvements. However, with many people expressing cost concerns and a lack of awareness surrounding support timelines, Microsoft could face a challenging transition. A pushback from users may lead to increased marketing efforts aimed at educating people about the benefits of ongoing subscriptions, but resistance could persist, especially among those loyal to their existing software.
A Historical Lens on Transitioning Trends
This scenario resembles the shift from physical media to digital downloads in music during the late 2000s. Initially, many music lovers resisted cloud streaming services like Spotify, preferring the permanence of CDs. However, as artists and labels embraced digital formats, gradually, listeners found value in the convenience and unlimited access to vast libraries. Much like today’s software users, those who clung to traditional formats were ultimately confronted with a changing landscape that favored adaptability, revealing a longer-term benefit they hadn't initially recognized. Just as the music industry adapted to new consumer habits, Microsoft must be conscious of its audience's resistance while shaping future software evolution.