Microsoft is switching off text predictions by default in Word and Outlook, giving users more control over AI-assisted writing features.

Microsoft announced it will disable the text‑prediction feature in Word and Outlook for most users, shifting the AI‑assisted writing tools from an automatic default to an opt‑in experience.

What’s changing

Starting next month, the predictive text suggestions that automatically finish sentences in the desktop versions of Word and Outlook will be turned off for all accounts unless users explicitly enable them in the settings.

The move follows internal feedback that many users found the feature intrusive or preferred to retain full control over their prose, especially in professional communications.

How to re‑enable the feature

Users who still want the convenience of AI‑driven suggestions can turn the feature back on by navigating to File → Options → Proofing → Text Predictions and checking the box labeled “Enable text predictions.”

The setting is also available in the web versions of the apps under Settings → General → Writing assistance.

Why Microsoft is pulling back

Microsoft said the decision reflects a broader strategy to give users “more granular control over AI‑assisted features” and to address concerns about privacy and data handling associated with real‑time content generation.

The company continues to invest in larger AI tools like Copilot, but those remain optional and are positioned as premium services rather than default assistants.

  • Default text predictions disabled in Word and Outlook
  • Feature can be re‑enabled manually
  • Focus on user control and privacy
  • Copilot remains available as a separate offering
We want to ensure that AI helps rather than hinders, and giving users the choice is central to that goal.

The change will roll out gradually, with enterprise customers receiving notifications through the Microsoft 365 admin center.

For more details, see The Register coverage of Microsoft’s text‑prediction rollback.