Microsoft has just announced the release of Office 2024, the new standalone version of its office suite for Mac and PC. Available now, Office 2024 offers an interesting alternative for those who prefer a one-time purchase rather than a Microsoft 365 subscription and its web version. Let’s take a look at the main new features brought by this version, especially for Mac users.
Small novelties welcome
Office 2024 brings several notable improvements to Mac according to Microsoft. Excel notably benefits from increased performance, especially when working with multiple workbooks open simultaneously.
On the Outlook side, it is now possible to customize swipe gestures designed to improve email management and working with the Magic Trackpad and Magic Mouse. Very practical little extras for everyday use.
PowerPoint is not left out with the arrival of new functions like “Cameo” which allows you to integrate a live camera feed directly into your slides. Or the “Recording Studio” to capture narration, animations, transitions and handwriting.
On Word and PowerPoint, it is now possible to like and react to comments in collaborative documents. A more interactive way to work with others.
On the other hand, no mention of Copilot which seems definitively reserved for Windows and web users in Office 365. Mac users will therefore have to wait for the arrival of Apple Intelligence to benefit from a little AI in office applications.
Other improvements: accessibility, ODF 1.4 support…
Other new features in Office 2024 on Mac include:
- Support for version 1.4 of the OpenDocument Format (ODF) on Word, Excel and PowerPoint. For better compatibility.
- A new default Office theme that is more modern and consistent across applications.
- Enriched accessibility tools to automatically make your documents more inclusive
Office 2024 is compatible with macOS Ventura, Sonoma and Sequoia. The suite requires a Microsoft account and an Internet connection for installation and activation. Two editions are offered: Office Family 2024 at €149 with Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote. And Office Home & Small Business 2024 at €249 which adds Outlook and commercial use rights.
If Microsoft 365 remains the recommended choice to benefit from the latest features continuously, Office 2024 offers a solid standalone alternative for Mac users attached to a traditional licensing model. Enough to satisfy all profiles, from individuals to businesses.
Are you going to abandon the free iWork suite (Pages, Keynote and Numbers) in favor of Office 2024 on your Mac?
