Microsoft will slow down this version of OneNote before finally terminating support later this year

Microsoft will slow down this version of OneNote before finally terminating support later this year

  • 24.03.2025 15:30
  • windowscentral.com
  • Keywords: Microsoft, Windows 10, OneNote, End of Support, M365

Microsoft will slow down OneNote for Windows 10 in June 2025 and stop supporting it by October 14, 2025, urging users to switch to OneNote M365.

Microsoft ServicesMSFTsentiment_dissatisfied

Estimated market influence

Microsoft

Microsoft

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Analyst rating: Strong buy

Microsoft is ending support for OneNote for Windows 10 and encouraging users to migrate to OneNote M365.

Windows 10

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Analyst rating: N/A

Windows 10 will no longer have OneNote as a default app after the end of support.

OneNote

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Analyst rating: N/A

The legacy version of OneNote is being phased out, impacting users who rely on it.

Context

Analysis of Microsoft's OneNote for Windows 10 End-of-Support Announcement

Key Facts and Timeline

  • End of Support Date: October 14, 2025
  • Degraded Sync Performance: Starting in June 2025, OneNote for Windows 10 will experience slower sync performance, impacting real-time collaboration and multi-device access.
  • In-App Banners: In July 2023, Microsoft will begin displaying in-app banners within OneNote for Windows 10 to encourage migration to OneNote M365.

Business Insights

  • Transition Strategy: Microsoft is gradually migrating users from OneNote for Windows 10 to OneNote M365, a unified and modern version of the app with enhanced features and security updates.
  • Feature Limitations: New features (e.g., Copilot) have been exclusive to OneNote M365 since 2022, incentivizing users to adopt the newer version.

Market Implications

  • Competitive Dynamics: Microsoft's push for a unified OneNote aligns with its strategy to modernize productivity tools and reduce fragmentation in its ecosystem.
  • User Retention: The gradual transition gives users ample time to migrate, minimizing disruption but also creating urgency through degraded performance and in-app messaging.

Strategic Considerations

  • Security and Compliance: OneNote M365 offers improved security features, aligning with enterprise needs for compliance and data protection.
  • Long-Term Effects: While OneNote for Windows 10 will be sunset, the core OneNote product remains relevant, ensuring continued market presence in the productivity app space.

Conclusion

Microsoft's strategic move to phase out OneNote for Windows 10 highlights its focus on modernization and consolidation of its productivity suite. The transition to OneNote M365 positions the company to maintain its competitive edge in the note-taking and collaboration market while ensuring users have access to the latest features and security updates.