Microsoft is revamping how Word for Windows saves files to streamline document management. The company is currently testing a new update with Microsoft 365 Insiders, which will save all new documents directly to the cloud by default. Raul Munoz, product manager for the Office shared services and experiences team, described the change: “We are modernising the way files are created and stored in Word for Windows. Now you don’t have to worry about saving your documents: Anything new you create will be saved automatically to OneDrive or your preferred cloud destination.” This initiative aims to prevent users from losing their work and allows seamless access to documents across devices, whether on Android, iOS, or via a web browser.
New files will also follow a new naming convention based on dates rather than the current method of appending numbers to filenames. Users will retain the option to set a preferred cloud location or disable automatic cloud saving if they choose. This move reinforces Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to cloud integration. Word already includes an AutoSave feature linked to cloud storage, and Windows often encourages users to enable OneDrive backups. Although this update enhances convenience and cross-device access, it also presents challenges for those who prefer local file storage. Some users have expressed dissatisfaction with this change.
In comments on Microsoft’s blog, one user remarked: “It seems that every few years Microsoft adds yet another step that users have to jump through to get to their files. It used to be very simple with the C drive being prominently displayed.” While this change is presently limited to Microsoft 365 Insiders, it indicates a larger trend toward making cloud storage the default option in Word for Windows. As Microsoft advances its ecosystem’s reliance on cloud services, users may need to adjust their workflows or continue advocating for simpler local storage options.