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If you use Microsoft’s free text-editing extension for Chrome or Edge to tweak your writing, you have less than two months left to use it. The company announced late last week that its Microsoft Editor tool will be retired as it builds functionality directly into the Edge browser.
Microsoft Editor was first introduced in April 2020, and it has proven a popular option for those who want a grammar and spell checker active across all their web browsing. The Chrome extension alone has over two million users with a rating of 4.7 stars from over 4,500 reviews.
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As spotted by Neowin, Microsoft pushed a notification to users on Aug. 29 that explained the service will be retired on Oct. 31, 2025. The brand wants to act on “consolidating writing assistance into Edge's built-in proofing tools.”
The brand said, “Users will get enhanced AI-powered grammar and style suggestions directly in Edge without needing extensions.” However, there’s no alternative service for those who use the Chrome extension. That may also be Microsoft's way to encourage users to switch over to its own tool, rather than continue using the world's most popular web browser.
Microsoft says this move will allow it to offer “smarter, enhanced suggestions for grammar, spelling, and writing style” directly within Edge.
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Microsoft said, “This approach simplifies the experience and ensures users benefit from the latest AI-powered enhancements without needing separate installations.” Moving away from extensions will mean more users are automatically opted into the tools. That may also mean they’ll get more consistent support, and it could mean Microsoft puts more attention on improvements.
Chrome users who have enjoyed Microsoft’s free text editor may be frustrated by this move. There are alternative services, such as Grammarly, but there are limited options that offer such in-depth functionality for free.
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About James Peckham
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I’ve written tech news for over a decade, and as a Reporter at PCMag, I cover the latest developments across the gadgets and services you use every day. Previously, I worked for Android Police, TechRadar, and more.
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