Microsoft Updates Office for Mac: New Features and Improvements

Microsoft has rolled out a significant update for its Office suite on Mac, introducing exciting new features aimed at boosting both security and productivity. This update, Version 16.95, is available for Microsoft 365, Office 2024, and Office 2021 users. Let’s dive into what’s new!

Enhanced Security with Passkey Support

One of the standout updates is the introduction of passkey support for Mac Office applications. Passkeys are a modern alternative to traditional passwords, offering a safer and easier way to authenticate.

What Are Passkeys?

Passkeys are digital keys stored on your device, designed to replace conventional passwords with advanced cryptographic methods. They’re secured using biometric features like Touch ID, Face ID, or a device PIN, reducing the risk of phishing attacks or data breaches.

How to Set Up and Use Passkeys

Setting up Passkeys is simple:

1. Register on a website or app that supports Passkeys.
2. Look for options like “Register with Passkey” or “Create Passkey.”
3. Confirm via Touch ID, Face ID, or your device password.

Once set up, logging in is effortless—just visit the login page, select “Register with Passkey,” and confirm your identity. Your Passkeys are securely stored in your iCloud keychain, giving you access across all Apple devices.

Availability of Passkeys

While not universally adopted yet, Passkey support is growing. Major players like Google, Microsoft, and Apple have already integrated this technology, and it’s expected to become a standard in the near future.

Productivity Boosts in Outlook and Excel

Outlook users get several updates to streamline their workflow:

• Shared Mailbox Support: Now available for Exchange on-premise environments, making it easier for companies using internal mail servers.
• Calendar Management Improvements: Access team meeting chats directly from appointment reminders and view upcoming events under “My Day” in the menu bar.

Excel also gets a boost, with new features such as:

• Translator and Recognizing Language Tools: Automatically translate content within spreadsheets, supporting over 100 languages.
• Improved Active Cell Display: Ensures better navigation within large datasets.

Additionally, the M365 Copilot chat is now integrated as an AI assistant, leveraging large language models (LLMs) to provide relevant insights and support within Outlook.

Security Updates and Bug Fixes

Microsoft has addressed eight security vulnerabilities, some of which were critical, affecting Word and Excel. Users are strongly encouraged to update their software promptly.

Other fixes include:

• Improved readability of indicators in Dark Mode.
• Proper display of encrypted emails in local folders.

Availability and System Requirements

This update is available for Microsoft 365 subscribers, as well as Office 2024 and Office 2021 users. Note that some features are exclusive to Microsoft 365.

To install Version 16.95, your device must be running macOS Monterey or later. The update can be downloaded via the integrated update function.

Learn more about the update here

For Excel-specific updates, check out ifun reports.

This update brings a mix of powerful new tools and essential security fixes, ensuring a smoother and more secure experience for Office on Mac users.