Microsoft is Killing Word's Similarity Checker in October 2026

Microsoft Word is losing yet another feature, and this one could matter for students, educators, and organizations. Word’s Similarity Checker is officially being retired. In the Admin Center Message ID MC1466753, the company confirmed that confirms the feature will be retired on October 3, 2026.

Similarity Checker is being pulled out from Microsoft Word

The retirement affects users currently accessing Similarity Checker through the Microsoft Editor experience in Word. “This change allows us to focus on experiences and capabilities that are more broadly used across Microsoft Word,” notes Microsoft.

More importantly, this does not mean Microsoft Editor is disappearing. Its spelling, grammar, clarity, and style suggestions will continue working normally.

Microsoft says other Word writing, editing, and citation capabilities will not be affected. Microsoft 365 Copilot features in Word will also continue after Similarity Checker retires.

However, Microsoft specifically warns that Copilot is not a formal similarity, plagiarism, or originality validation tool. Organizations using Similarity Checker should therefore review workflows before the retirement date.

Microsoft recommends informing affected users and evaluating alternative solutions for formal similarity or originality checks. There is no mandatory action required from administrators, though.

via: Neowin