As expected, Microsoft has launched Office 2013, presenting some new and some revamped features of the product that has served the company’s financial needs quite handsomely since it first hit the market.
Among the most prominent features of the new office product, one is the subscription that Microsoft is offering. Instead of paying one time for the product, users can get annual subscription along with getting a cloud facility that enables them to access the software from any part of the world.
This, although a good development, has not impressed everyone. While the critics have given mostly positive reviews about Office 2013, most of them have raised questions on the amount of subscription one has to pay. Customers have to pay $100 per year for Office 365 Home Premium that can be installed in up to five computers.
The new office has a better user interface and design and also has a touch screen feature, but Adrian Covert at CNN writes: “This isn’t a touchscreen revolution. Office 2013 is still best experienced with a physical keyboard and mouse.”
The main point to consider for Microsoft with respect to its new Office products is that there are many other companies providing the same service free of cost. Google Docs is an example. Still, many reviewers are of the view that the new Office product is worth paying for. CNET evaluated the new product saying:
“Familiar tools coupled with new features and a simplified and redesigned interface make Office 2013 well worth the paid upgrade.”