MS Word on iPad, can no longer edit

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Bpeters1956 Author

Level 1

4 points

MS Word on iPad, can no longer edit

Some years ago I downloaded MS Office for iPad on my ancient iPad2 (iOS 9.3.5 - the latest compatible with iPad2) and everything was fine. A few days ago, while using 'Word' I started getting a yellow band at the top of my document reading "To edit and save, sign in with an Office 365 subscription" (I've never had nor needed one). Now I can no longer modify a Word document.

I've already tried resetting Word under "settings," deleting "Login Credentials" and re-entering them (for my Microsoft Account) to no avail.

Has something changed? Must I really buy an Office 365 subscription? I'd rather not since I'm going to buy a laptop soon and retire the iPad. However for now it would be nice to continue to work with my iPad.

Can anyone shed light on this issue?

Thank you in advance.

iPad 2 Wi-Fi, iOS 9.3.5

Posted on May 2, 2018 10:43 AM

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Answer 1

Lyssa

Level 8

41,415 points

May 2, 2018 4:46 PM in response to Bpeters1956

It does say you only need a Microsoft account to do the editing and not necessarily a paid subscription.

I found this on the app page for Word (app page here: Microsoft Word on the App Store):

"To create or edit documents, sign in with a free Microsoft account on devices with a screen size of 10.1 inches or smaller. "

That's for the most recent version of the app, though, which requires iOS 10. I wonder if the older version is having issues, which unfortunately would leave you stuck until you get a newer device.

Microsoft Support may be able to help.

Word for iPad Help - Word for iPad

~Lyssa

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Answer 2

Rudegar

Level 10

182,602 points

May 2, 2018 11:09 PM in response to Bpeters1956

no office365 is not limited to desktop apps it's a subscription required for office on all platforms without it your ios apps are viewers only (minus onenote)

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Answer 3

Bpeters1956 Author

Level 1

4 points

May 2, 2018 7:53 PM in response to Lyssa

Thanks.

Microsoft Support seems to think I had a free trial which expired then suggested I go to their MS Office Online site were I should be able to work. That did not work either; keeps trying to sell me Office 365 (I think that site is for desktop applications). It's probably related to the age and limitations of my iPad (iOS). I'm gonna buy a new laptop - its time.

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MS Word on iPad, can no longer edit

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