MC1227071 - Files in Outlook for iOS and Android will open in Word, Excel or Powerpoint app on iPad

Introduction

We’re conducting an experiment that changes how Word, Excel, and PowerPoint file attachments open in Outlook for iOS and Android. For iPad users only, these files may open directly in the Word, Excel, or PowerPoint apps when they are installed, instead of using the in-app previewer.

When this will happen:

General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCCH, DoD): We will begin rolling out this experiment in early to mid-February 2026 and expect to decide whether to proceed with or stop the rollout by the late March 2026.

How this affects your organization:

Who is affected:

• Users on iPad devices running Outlook who have the Word, Excel, or PowerPoint apps installed.

What will happen:

• Some iPad users will find that Word, Excel, and PowerPoint attachments open directly in the corresponding app.
• Users without the Office apps installed will continue to use the in-app previewer.
• This is an experiment and may not become permanent.
• No admin configuration is required.

What you can do to prepare:

• No action is required.
• You may choose to notify iPad users or update internal help documentation.

Compliance considerations:

No compliance considerations identified, review as appropriate for your organization.