Microsoft Word documents will soon auto-save to the cloud by default

Since a while back, there’s been a setting in Microsoft 365 that makes it possible to auto-save Word documents to the cloud. It’s a convenient feature that helps mitigate the risk of losing data in case of an app crash or system outage, and one of the many Microsoft Word tips and tricks worth knowing about if you use it often.

But you have to enable the feature per-document to take advantage of it. At least, that was the case until now. According to a recent Microsoft 365 Insider blog post, this auto-save option will soon be enabled by default for all new Word documents.

Microsoft

When enabled, the Word document will automatically save to OneDrive or your preferred cloud destination. The benefits include:

Increased security and compliance: Files saved in the cloud are automatically protected by your company’s security rules and labeling, so you don’t have to take extra steps to keep them safe and compliant.

Never lose your progress: You don’t have to worry about losing your work—creation in the cloud means your document is automatically saved for you as you go.

Flexible file control and storage: You’re in charge of your files—you can choose what they’re named, decide where they’re saved, and organize them your way. Store them in OneDrive, SharePoint, or other locations to keep everything just where you want it.

Access from anywhere: Files you create in Word for Windows are instantly available on your Android or iOS device, or in a web browser. When you make changes on one device, they sync everywhere.

Easy collaboration: It’s easy to work with others—just share your cloud file to start collaborating right away, add comments, and make changes together. AutoSave keeps your work updated in real time.

Copilot and Agent support: From the moment you create a file, you can use Copilot and Agent features right away. This lets you get AI-powered help whenever you need it as you create or update your documents (Note: A Copilot Chat or Microsoft 365 Copilot license is required).

This feature is currently only available in Word for Windows, starting with Version 2509 (Build 19221.20000). It will soon be coming to Excel for Windows and PowerPoint for Windows as well later this year.