14 DAY TRIAL // Right now, Microsoft is offering two separate OneNote apps to Windows users, namely a Windows 10 version that’s available in the Microsoft Store, as well as a desktop client that comes as part of the Office suite.
Needless to say, this approach makes little sense for some, and as it turns out, Microsoft has finally acknowledged the whole thing too, so the company decided to change things by merging the two apps into a single client that would come with new features and a visual refresh.
“Advances in Windows and Office will allow us to unify the two apps so that you'll have the simplicity of a single OneNote app on Windows while enjoying the interface and features you're already familiar with,” the software giant announced.
All-in on the desktop app
Moving forward, Microsoft says all exclusive features that are currently available in the Windows 10 client will move to the desktop app, as this is the company’s long-term focus.
The Windows 10 version, however, wouldn’t be retired until 2025 when support for the operating system comes to an end in the first place. However, users will start setting prompts encouraging the switch to the desktop version of OneNote starting with the second half of the next year.
“OneNote for Windows 10 users will get an in-app invitation to update to the OneNote app. We anticipate invitations to start in the second half of 2022. We will have a future announcement dedicated to IT pros that will detail the available controls over the timing and experience of updating users to the OneNote app,” the company explained.
Those who use OneNote on the desktop don’t have to do anything, as the migration will be as seamless as possible and the client would just be updated with new features regularly until the transition is complete.