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MC1518032Microsoft 365 apps: Introducing Update Repair in Inventory

Summary

Update Repair in Inventory helps admins identify and fix Windows devices with outdated or problematic Microsoft 365 apps via the admin center. It enables remote Online Repair for eligible devices, rolling out from October to November 2026. Admins must enable Inventory and notify users before repairs.

More information

What and why

We are introducing Update Repair in Inventory to help admins identify and remediate Windows devices with Microsoft 365 apps that are out of date or experiencing update issues. In the Microsoft 365 apps admin center, admins can review device status and recommended actions, remotely start Online Repair for eligible devices, and follow manual remediation guidance for devices that need attention. Repair reinstalls Microsoft 365 apps using the latest available build for the device's configured update channel.

Rollout schedule

  • Public Preview (Worldwide): Rollout began in mid-October 2026 and is expected to complete by late October 2026.
  • General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout will begin in mid-November 2026 and is expected to complete by late November 2026.

Impact on your organization

Who is affected

  • Admins managing Windows devices with Microsoft 365 apps installed.

Platforms and services

  • Windows devices with Microsoft 365 apps
  • Microsoft 365 apps admin center

What will happen

  • Admins can more easily identify devices with Microsoft 365 apps update issues and decide how to remediate them.
  • Eligible devices can be repaired remotely, reducing the need for hands-on intervention.
  • Repair closes open Office apps and reinstalls Microsoft 365 apps.
  • Devices that need attention still require administrator review and manual remediation.

Action required and recommendations

  • Go to the Microsoft 365 apps admin center and make sure Inventory is enabled.
  • Update Repair uses Inventory data from Windows devices with Microsoft 365 apps installed to identify devices that need attention or repair. For the Repair action, devices must be running build 16.0.20326.20000 or later.
  • Before starting a repair, notify affected users, ask them to save their work and close Office apps, and schedule the action to minimize disruption.
  • Keep devices powered on, signed in, and connected so they can receive the action at their next Inventory check-in.

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Compliance considerations

No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.