Pusblisher users, take note! Microsoft retires their beloved Publisher app in October 2026. If this affects you, here’s what to know and do in preparation:
What You Will See Happen
For now, absolutely nothing changes. If you have MS Publisher installed on your PC, it will work as expected up until October 2026.
In October 2026, we can expect 365 users’ computers to be updated, so that Publisher will vanish (uninstall) from the system. Your Publisher files will not be removed, just the program will go away.
If you have Publisher from a purchased, stand-alone Office license (ex.: Microsoft Office Professional 2021), you can expect to keep to keep your Publisher app, for as long as you are using that computer. It will still work, but you cannot ask Microsoft for support with it.
What About My Publisher Files?
If 365 removes the Publisher app from your computer, you will probably find yourself unable to open or access your related files. Don’t panic! You have options and tools at your disposal, whether you are preparing in advance or coping after the retirement date.
- Microsoft thinks you should convert your PUB files to PDF files, and then attempt to bring the PDF into Word. I’m not sure I like this option best, as it may cause Word to lock up… but you can check out their recommended steps at this website. Alternatively, you may want to experiment with your other file type options under Save As in Publisher.
- LibreOffice can open your Publisher files. You can install LibreOffice on your system for free (and it will not interfere with your Microsoft Office). Once you open a PUB file in LibreOffice, you’ll have the ability to review and make edits, as well as perform a Save As to move your work to a different file type.
- You can use a variety of free websites to convert your PUB file to PDF. PublisherToPDF.com does the job, and Zamzar also looks capable.
Final Commentary
Publisher is going away because of the variety of options you have for design and layout. Microsoft would have you consider moving to Word, PowerPoint and Designer. But non-Microsoft (and free) alternatives include LibreOffice Draw, Canva, and Scribus. If you need a paid/professional grade altermative, there’s always Adobe InDesign and QuarkXPress is still around!