Word 2021 for Windows enables you to create compelling content and includes co-authoring, new stock media from the Office Premium Creative Content collection, and new Draw tab additions such as Point Eraser, Ruler, and Lasso.Â
If you're upgrading to Word 2021 for Windows from Word 2019 for Windows, you'll still have all the features you're used to—and you'll notice a few new ones as well!
Note: Some features listed below are not included in Word LTSC 2021 for commercial customers. Each of those features is noted if it does not apply to Word LTSC 2021 for commercial customers.
Co-authoring
You and your colleagues can open and work on the same document. This is called co-authoring. When you co-author, you can see each other's changes quickly — in a matter of seconds.
Note: Co-authoring is not available in Word LTSC 2021.
Visual refresh
Work with a modernized Start experience and newly refreshed tabs in the ribbon. Experience a clean, clear style with monoline iconography, neutral color palette, and softer window corners. These updates communicate action and provide features with simple visuals.
Note: Visual refresh is not available in Word LTSC 2021.
Save your changes as they happen
Upload your files to OneDrive, OneDrive for Business, or SharePoint Online to make sure all your updates are saved automatically.
Reduce eye strain with Dark Mode
Previously, you could use Word with a dark ribbon and toolbars, but your document color stayed bright white. Now, Dark Mode in Word offers a dark canvas as well.
See what’s new in stock media
We’re constantly adding more rich media content to the Office Premium Creative Content collection that helps you express yourself, such as a curated library of stock images, icons, and more.
Find what you need with Microsoft Search
At the top of your Microsoft Office apps on Windows, you'll find the new Microsoft Search box. This powerful tool helps you quickly find what you're looking for, such as text, commands, help, and more.
Improve comprehension with Line Focus
Move through a document in Word, line by line, without distractions. Adjust the focus to put one, three, or five lines in view at a time.
Updated Draw tab
Quickly access and change the color of all your inking tools, all in one place.
Simplify how you work with ink using new Draw tab additions: Point Eraser, Ruler, and Lasso.
Increase the reach of your content
Accessibility Checker keeps an eye on your documents and tells you in the status bar when it finds something you should look at. Try it by clicking Review > Check Accessibility.
Support for OpenDocument format (ODF) 1.3
We now include support for the OpenDocument format (ODF) 1.3. The ODF 1.3 specification adds support for many new features.
Try the Sketched style outline
You can give a casual, hand-drawn look to shapes in your presentations with the Sketched style outline.
Try out the Curved, Freehand, or Scribble options under Format Shape > Line > Sketched style.
