Few weeks into 2019, tech giant Microsoft has already made several bold moves that are at the core of its operations including product offering. The company has decided to end the support of Windows 10 mobile – in simpler terms, it is killing the Windows Phone.
It has also advised Windows Phone users to get new devices – Android or iOS.
“Microsoft’s mission statement to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more, compels us to support our Mobile apps on those platforms and devices,” Microsoft stated.
The announcement was quietly made via an update to the Windows 10 Mobile End of Support FAQ.
According to Microsoft, by December 10, 2019, Windows 10 Mobile users will no longer be eligible to receive new security updates, non-security hotfixes, free assisted support options, or online technical content updates from Microsoft for free.
While users may still access paid support programs through third parties, the company said it will not publicly provide updates or patches for Windows 10 Mobile.
“Only device models that are eligible for Windows 10 Mobile, version 1709 are supported through the end date. For Lumia 640 and 640 XL phone models, Window 10 Mobile version 1703 was the last supported OS version and will reach end of support on June 11th, 2019.”
Office now on Mac App Store
While Microsoft is pulling out of the mobile gadgets business, it is expanding accessibility to its product hence its decision to make Microsoft Office 365 available on the Mac App Store for the first time.
The company the move makes it easier for Mac users to download Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and the whole suite of Microsoft’s popular apps. Furthermore, users can also purchase a subscription for Office 365 from within the apps, so they can get up and running instantly.
“We are excited to welcome Microsoft Office 365 to the all new Mac App Store in macOS Mojave,” said Phil Schiller, Apple’s senior vice president of Worldwide Marketing. “Apple and Microsoft have worked together to bring great Office productivity to Mac users from the very beginning. Now, with Office 365 on the Mac App Store, it’s easier than ever to get the latest and best version of Office 365 for Mac, iPad and iPhone.”
“We are excited to announce that today Office 365 is arriving in the Mac App Store,” said Jared Spataro, corporate vice president at Microsoft. “We have worked closely with Apple to provide Mac users with the very best productivity experience — one that offers everything they know and love about Office through an experience uniquely designed for the Mac.”