Microsoft Office for Windows Desktop Gets New Updates in Insider Program

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Microsoft testing new features as part of Insider program

 

Microsoft has just updated Office for Windows desktop as part of the Insider program, this time with more features aimed at Excel and Outlook rather than for Word.

 

With this update, Office 2016 reaches version 1705 and build number 8201, with users in the production ring likely to get these feature improvements and new options in the coming weeks.

 

This time, however, the focus is no longer on Word, but on the other productivity apps included in the Office suite, and Microsoft is expected to bring them to other platforms very soon.

 

What’s new in this build?

 

Microsoft Excel is getting the biggest number of improvements in this update, so starting with this version, the spreadsheet tool benefits from enhanced data import functionality.

 

“Easily import and shape data from various sources. Manage workbook queries and connection with the Queries & Connection side pane, and share queries with others via ODC files,” Microsoft explains.

 

The same version introduces more copying control options, so you can copy a cell, and before pasting, you are allowed to do other tasks like typing or working with other cells, with the content kept in the clipboard as long as you need.

 

And last but not least, there are new data transformation options, with Microsoft explaining that in the Query Editor, you can create a new column by providing sample values, and as you type, the application detects the required transformations and displays a preview of the column.

 

Outlook is also getting some improvements, and the attachment feature is one particular target, as it allows users to add files directly in the email or simply upload them to the cloud. You can quickly access groups that you use the most easily because they are displayed at the top of the list.

 

And last but not least, PowerPoint enables you to add closed captions to videos included in your presentations.

 

Keep in mind that these features are only available for insiders for the time being, but depending on feedback, they should be released to all Office 365 users shortly.

 

Source