Microsoft Begins Warning Users Ahead of Publisher Retirement in October 2026

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Microsoft has started showing in-app retirement notifications to users of Microsoft Publisher, warning that the software will reach end of life in October 2026. The message states: "Beginning October 2026, Microsoft Publisher will no longer be supported, and you won't be able to access Publisher or open Publisher files."

The notifications were first reported by Neowin. Although Microsoft previously announced Publisher's retirement, these in-app alerts are the first direct notifications sent to active users within the application itself.

What Happens to Microsoft Publisher in October 2026

Microsoft 365 subscribers will lose access to Publisher entirely. Existing on-premises installations will also lose support. After the retirement date, Publisher files will no longer open or be editable within Publisher, regardless of subscription status. Microsoft has stated support will continue at current levels until the October deadline, with no changes to functionality in the meantime.

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