Microsoft has extended a nifty new feature to include Android users: the ability to view shared Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files without needing to sign in with a Microsoft account. Previously, this was an exclusive perk for iPhone/iPad users—but Android’s finally been invited to the party.
That said, if users want to leave their mark—via edits or comments—they’ll still need to sign in. This read-only feature is strictly for the curious, not the collaborative.
A key caveat: this anonymous access is only available for files shared from personal Microsoft accounts. Business, enterprise or school accounts still require the usual password dance.
How Sharing Works
To share files without forcing viewers to sign in:
- Log into a personal Microsoft account.
- Open a document—be it Word, Excel, or PowerPoint.
- Tap “Share,” head into “Link settings” (that little gear icon), and select “Anyone with the link can view” or “…can edit.”
- Hit Apply, then share the link via email, chat, carrier pigeon—whatever works.
A “Anyone with the link can edit ” sharing allows editing only for logged in users.
A view-only link ensures that recipients can admire the document but not make any unauthorized tweaks.
Who gets it?
iPhone and iPad Office apps already have this feature.
Android users need apps with version 16.0.18827.20066 or higher.
