Microsoft warns that some Office files might not work on your Mac next month

Microsoft has posted a support document that warns of a potential problem with Microsoft Office or 365 and iOS and macOS. Microsoft is ending support for devices running older operating systems, which can result in what the company calls “reduced functionality mode” with Office files. Users will be able to open and print files, but the files cannot be edited or saved, nor can new files be created.

Microsoft states that this issue will arise starting on July 13. To restore functionality, Microsoft instructs users to update their device’s operating system to run its software. Macs require macOS 12 Monterey or later, iPhones require iOS 17 or later, and iPads require iPadOS 17 or later. Once the OS has been updated, Office/365 can be updated.

Microsoft says the issue affects “both Microsoft 365 subscribers on macOS, iPhone, and iPad, and those with non-subscription software, including Office 2021 or Office 2019 on macOS. It published a support document that provides instructions on how to update your devices and Microsoft software.

In the instance where a device can’t be upgraded to the required OS, Microsoft states that it will send an email “with more information” to the address listed in the customer’s Office or 365 account. Users can use 365 on the web at microsoft.com, or use Office on a different device. Users of Office 2019 for Mac will need to switch to Office web apps or subscribe to Microsoft 365.