Microsoft news recap: Office 2021 launches early October, passwords optional for personal MSA accounts, and more

Jack Wilkinson

Microsoft logo on car hood

Microsoft news recap is a weekly feature highlighting the top Microsoft news stories of the past week. Sit back, grab some coffee, and enjoy the read!

Office 2021 will be released on October 5, LTSC version is available today

Office 2021 for personal customers is set for release on October 5, on the same day as Windows 11. In addition, Office LTSC 2021, which is for government and commercial customers, and offers a perpetual licence, has been announced.

OneDrive can now be installed as a PWA

OneDrive has gained the ability to be installed as a Progressive Web App, making it easier to access your files from your computer using the website in app form.

Microsoft President Brad Smith joins company board as Vice Chairman

Microsoft’s president and chief legal officer, Brad Smith, has gained a new role as Vice Chairman. At the time of the announcement, a dividend increase was also announced, alongside a share purchase program.

Microsoft is making passwords optional for MSA accounts to improve security

In a bullish attempt to make a move to a more password-less society, Microsoft has made passwords optional on personal MSA accounts. The feature makes use of the Microsoft Authenticator app to authenticate access to your account without a password.

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That’s it for this week. We wll be back next week with more Microsoft news.