Excel Gets New Import Functions for Faster Data Loads

Microsoft is making it easier to bring data into Excel, especially for users who just want quick results without opening Power Query. In a new update for Excel on Windows, Microsoft has introduced Import Functions, a pair of formula-based tools designed to pull text data straight into the grid. The new functions, IMPORTTEXT and IMPORTCSV, aim to simplify common workflows like loading .csv or .txt files.

According to Microsoft, many users find Power Query powerful but overly complex for basic import tasks. Import Functions are meant to solve that by letting users load data with a single formula, producing a refreshable dynamic array inside the worksheet.

IMPORTTEXT is the more flexible of the two. It allows users to import data from .txt, .csv, and .tsv files, either from a local path or a URL. Users can control how data is parsed by setting delimiters, encoding, row limits, locale, and other options directly in the formula.

IMPORTCSV is designed as a simpler shortcut. It focuses only on .csv files and applies smart defaults like comma delimiters and UTF-8 encoding. The goal is speed, fewer parameters, and less setup for everyday CSV imports.

Once imported, the data behaves like any other dynamic array in Excel. Users can refresh it manually using Data > Refresh All, keeping the dataset up to date without re-importing.

Microsoft also highlighted a few power-user touches. Import Functions support fixed-width files, special character delimiters using CHAR, and can even be used as context for the COPILOT function to ask questions about imported data.

The new Import Functions are currently available to Microsoft 365 Insiders in the Beta Channel. Users need Excel for Windows version 2502 (Build 18604.20002) or later, with Insider features enabled.