Microsoft is giving its Office apps a fresh coat of paint, and this time, it’s brighter, curvier, and a whole lot more playful.
If you use Microsoft 365 every day, you’ll soon spot the new Office icons rolling out across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the rest of the core 10 apps.
A More Playful Microsoft 365 Look
Microsoft has officially unveiled its redesigned Office icons, and they’re a big step away from the flat, sharp designs of 2018.
The new designs bring:
- More color gradients – richer, bolder, and easier to spot. Back in May, Google refreshed its iconic G logo with a subtle gradient as well.
- Curvier shapes – softer edges replace the old sharp lines.
- Simpler details – fewer bars and elements so icons look clean, even at smaller sizes.
Microsoft says the update is inspired by its Copilot design language, aiming to make Office apps feel more fluid, connected, and approachable.
Why Microsoft Changed the Icons
Icons might feel small, but they set the tone for the whole Microsoft 365 experience. This Office icons new look is meant to:
- Improve accessibility and contrast so icons are easier to recognize.
- Reflect Microsoft’s push toward a more modern, playful identity.
- Keep Office looking fresh and competitive in a world where design matters just as much as features.
This refresh isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about making the entire Microsoft 365 experience feel cohesive, especially with AI tools like Copilot now woven deeply into apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
When You’ll See Them
The Office app icons update will begin rolling out in the coming weeks across web, desktop, and mobile. Whether you’re a student writing essays in Word, a professional building PowerPoint decks, or just keeping track of expenses in Excel, you’ll notice the change soon.
Final Thoughts
It’s the first Microsoft 365 icons redesign in seven years, and honestly, it feels like a much-needed refresh. The playful gradients and smoother shapes make the apps look more alive and in step with Microsoft’s modern design language.
If you’ve been waiting for a modern Office icons update, this is it. So, get ready: your taskbar is about to look a whole lot brighter.
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