14 DAY TRIAL // Users are reporting issues with the Android version of Microsoft’s Office productivity suite, which can no longer be installed on a number of Chromebooks for a reason that’s yet to be discovered.
Posts on reddit reveal that Microsoft Office Android apps are now listed as incompatible for a number of Play store-enabled Chromebooks, raising questions regarding Redmond’s strategy when it comes to rival platforms.
While many rushed to accuse Microsoft of blocking Office on Chromebooks because this is a rival product, it’s important to note that Redmond has no reason to do that, especially given that the company is fighting to conquer Android and banning its productivity suite on a number of devices could push users to other products, such as Google’s.
Changes concerning screen size
One of the devices that can no longer install Office from the Google Play Store is the ASUS Flip, a 10.1-inch device that would otherwise run Microsoft’s productivity software just fine.
One possible reason for the sudden change of permissions when it comes to installing the Android version of Office is the screen size, as Microsoft is making its apps available for free only for devices with displays smaller than 10.1 inches. Here’s an excerpt from Microsoft’s policy:
“View, edit, and create documents with the familiar Office interface optimized for mobile phones and tablets. Core editing is free for consumers on devices with screen sizes smaller than 10.1 inches.”
Of course, there are ways to make Office run on Chromebooks even without downloading them from the Google Play Store by sideloading APKs, so you can download Word, Excel, and PowerPoint right now to install them on any device.
We’ve reached out to Microsoft for more information about why some Chromebooks can no longer install the Office productivity suite and will update the article when an answer is provided.