Q: I have downloaded free excel from apple store, but unable to work on excel as it's asks to subscribe. What's the definition of fee app?

Microsoft has decided that to use excel (OR Powerpoint, OR Word) on an iPad using the free App, you must subscribe to Office 365.  This decision was made by MICROSOFT.  Not Apple.

The Excel app lets you open/read Excel documents for free, but to edit or create spreadsheets, you need a subscription. This is what is called a "freemium" app - it offers limited functionality for free, but lets you add additional functionality via an in-app purchase. As sschmidt said, Microsoft is the one who chose to go with the freemium model for their apps.

Microsoft Office for iPad:Early Reviews of Word, PowerPoint & Excel Apps

http://ipadacademy.com/2014/03/microsoft-office-for-ipad-early-reviews-of-the-wo rd-powerpoint-excel-apps

 Cheers, Tom

Hi Vishaltm27,

I recommend using Citrix ShareFile QuickEdit (formerly Office2HD). It allows you to view AND edit Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files. I've been using it for 2 years now and it works for most of my Microsoft Office needs. The best part… it is now free!

Hope this helps.

~Joe