Tl; DR
- Microsoft deploys the sharing of anonymous files to Android.
- Android users can now display Word, PowerPoint and Excel documents without having to connect to their Microsoft account.
- You will always need to connect to your account if you want to make changes or leave comments.
Earlier this year, Microsoft has deployed anonymous file sharing for iPhone and iPad, leaving Android users in the cold. It’s been almost three months since, but the wait is finally over. Microsoft now brings this feature on Android.
In a blogThe company has announced that the owners of Android can now benefit from the sharing of anonymous files. This means that if someone shares a Word, PowerPoint or Excel file with you and sends a link to your Android device, you can now display this document without having to connect to the application first.
For this feature to work, the person who sends the link must be connected to their Microsoft account. Then, they will have to create a shareable link by opening the file, accessing the Share button in the upper right corner and entering the recipient’s email address. From there, they only have to press send or copy the link and paste it in a message.
If you are at the reception, you can press the link and open the file. You will now see the file, as well as an prompt asking if you want to connect to your personal account or reject.
This feature is available in Word, Excel and PowerPoint applications for Android in version 16.0.18827.20066 or later. Microsoft notes that you can only see documents, presentations and workheets. If you want to modify the file or leave a comment, you will always need to connect.
