Windows and Office Now Require Microsoft Account Sign-in as Phone Activation Ends

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Microsoft ends phone-based activation, requiring Microsoft account sign-in for Windows and Office, streamlining licensing for the cloud era.

Quick Report

Microsoft is ending phone-based activation, shifting Windows and Office licensing toward Microsoft account sign-in. The move modernizes verification and aligns with cloud-era policies, though some offline scenarios may require alternative support paths.

The change affects recent Windows 11 and Office builds, consolidating authentication under Microsoft accounts and reducing legacy activation pathways.

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Source(s)

  • TPU