Table of Contents
- Shutdown Announcement
- Features of Microsoft Lens
- User Reactions
- Retirement Timeline
- Alternative Solution
One of Microsoft’s highest-rated applications is set to shut down in just a few days, impacting millions of users globally.
The app has been downloaded over 50 million times on Android alone and has received high ratings across various platforms.
Microsoft Lens was launched over ten years ago, originally known as Office Lens.Credit: Jamie Harris / The Sun
Microsoft Lens has been downloaded over 50 million times on Android.Credit: Getty
Microsoft Lens is a free mobile scanning service that has gained popularity on both Android and iOS platforms.
This app allows users to utilize their phone’s camera to capture a wide range of items, including documents, whiteboards, and receipts, and convert them into various file formats such as Word, PDF, and Excel.
However, this summer, Microsoft surprised users with the announcement that the app would be phased out by the end of the year.
“No way! I love that app,” one user commented on social media.
“This is such a great app. What a terrible decision,” another user expressed.
“It’s such a useful app; why are they doing this?” a third user lamented.
“Every quarter they are making poor decisions.”
The actual "retirement" began on October 25, but features continued to function for those who had the app installed.
Nonetheless, on Christmas Day, Microsoft announced that Microsoft Lens would no longer receive support, meaning it would not receive any further updates.
You will still be able to scan documents for a while longer, but by January 25, the app will effectively shut down.
“After that date, you won’t be able to create new scans, but you will still have access to your previous scans if the app remains installed on your device,” the company stated.
In place of Microsoft Lens, the tech giant is encouraging users to utilize the Microsoft 365 app.
This app includes scanning capabilities, but it lacks some features available in the original app.
For instance, you can save scans directly to OneNote, Word, or PowerPoint.
However, features such as the ability to scan business cards directly to OneNote, the read-aloud tool, and immersive reader integration are not included.
Why is Microsoft Lens shutting down?
Microsoft Lens is being phased out as part of Microsoft's strategy, and users are encouraged to switch to the Microsoft 365 app.
What will happen to my scans after the app shuts down?
You will still have access to your previous scans as long as the app remains installed on your device, but you will not be able to create new scans after January 25.
What alternative should I use after Microsoft Lens?
Microsoft recommends using the Microsoft 365 app, which includes scanning capabilities, though it may not have all the features of Microsoft Lens.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
