Microsoft Disables Text Suggestions by Default in 6 Word and Outlook Apps

Q: Will this unexpected Microsoft update secretly erase the typing settings millions of existing Word and Outlook users rely on?

No. Microsoft has said it is changing text suggestions to an opt-in default in Word and Outlook, but it has not said it will secretly wipe existing users’ settings. What is clear is that predictive text is not being removed. It will still be available in Word for Windows, web, iOS and Android, plus classic Outlook for Windows and Outlook for Mac, and users can turn it back on in settings if they want it. Microsoft says the goal is to give people more control because feedback on the feature has been mixed. The unresolved point is whether the new default will override settings already chosen by current users. Microsoft has not clarified whether people who already have text suggestions enabled will see them switched off automatically, or whether the change applies only to new installs, new profiles, or newly updated versions. That is the key gap behind the concern. So the most accurate answer is that there is no evidence of a hidden reset affecting millions of users, but there is also no firm assurance yet that existing enabled settings will be preserved. Microsoft has said rollout specifics will appear in the Microsoft 365 admin center and product release notes, which is where administrators and users will need to look for confirmation. If the setting does turn off after an update, users can re-enable it manually under Word or Outlook settings, usually as “Show text predictions while typing” or “Text Predictions.”

3 articles · Updated · Computerworld · Sep 3

Microsoft will turn text suggestions off by default in Word and Outlook, shifting the predictive typing feature to an opt-in setting for users who still want it.
The change follows mixed user feedback: Microsoft said some people value the suggestions, while others find them distracting during writing and email work.
6 app variants are covered — Word for Windows, web, iOS and Android, plus classic Outlook for Windows and Outlook for Mac.
Microsoft has not said whether existing users with text suggestions already enabled will be switched off automatically; rollout timing will come through the Microsoft 365 admin center and release notes.