Author/Source: Mary Jo Foley See the full link here
Takeaway
This article clears up a common misunderstanding about Microsoft’s product names. It explains that the traditional Microsoft Office and the subscription-based Microsoft 365 are still separate offerings, even with new AI features like Copilot being introduced.
Technical Subject Understandability
Beginner
Analogy/Comparison
It’s like a car company that sells both a specific car model you buy once and a membership service that includes that car plus extra features like roadside assistance and regular updates. The car itself hasn’t changed its name, but the company offers new ways to get and use it.
Why It Matters
Understanding the difference between Microsoft Office and Microsoft 365 helps people know what they are getting when they buy software. For example, if you buy Microsoft Office, you own the programs forever, but with Microsoft 365, you pay a monthly fee and get more cloud features and regular updates.
Related Terms
Microsoft Office, Microsoft 365, Copilot. Jargon Conversion: Microsoft Office is a group of programs like Word and Excel that you buy one time to own. Microsoft 365 is a service you pay for regularly that gives you Office programs and extra online tools. Copilot is an AI assistant that helps you use Microsoft programs better.
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