Microsoft Simplifies Office 365 Pricing; Adding Teams Camera Content Focus

  • By Dian Schaffhauser
  • 10/01/21

Microsoft has introduced simpler pricing for its education customers that are using versions of the software beyond the free Office 365 (A1).

Beginning on Nov. 1, 2021, the company will be offering a new education license for Microsoft 365 A1 that costs $38 per device for a six-year license. That edition includes all Office desktop applications, including Teams, as well as cloud management and Minecraft: Education Edition. This version enables schools and colleges to support student learning on desktop Office apps with or without an internet connection.

Microsoft will continue making Office 365 available free to users with an EDU email address on a per-user basis.

Microsoft Teams content from camera feature

The company also announced that teachers and students will be able to share handwriting from a whiteboard or document using their laptop's camera via Microsoft Teams Content. The new feature is intended to help create a more inclusive classroom experience for each learner, whether they're in the room or joining online. That functionality will be available beginning in December.

About the Author

Dian Schaffhauser is a former senior contributing editor for 1105 Media's education publications THE Journal, Campus Technology and Spaces4Learning.

Featured

  • digital illustration of Estonia with glowing neural network-like connections spreading across the map

    Estonia to Roll Out ChatGPT Edu for all Secondary Schools

    In a nationwide artificial intelligence program dubbed "AI Leap 2025," the country of Estonia plans to provide free access to leading AI applications for all secondary school students and teachers. The initiative will launch with a rollout of ChatGPT Edu to 20,000 high school students in grades 10-11 and their 3,000 teachers, beginning Sept. 1.

  • pattern of icons for math and reading, including a pi symbol, calculator, and open book

    HMH Launches Personalized Path Solution

    Adaptive learning company HMH has introduced HMH Personalized Path, a K-8 ELA and math product that combines intervention curriculum, adaptive practice, and assessment for students of all achievement levels.

  • laptop screen displaying a typed essay, on a child

    McGraw Hill Acquires Essaypop Digital Learning Tool

    Education company McGraw Hill has announced the acquisition of Essaypop, a cloud-based writing tool that will enhance the former's portfolio of personalized learning capabilities.

  • teacher

    6 Policy Recommendations for Adopting AI in the Classroom

    The Southern Regional Education Board's Commission on AI in Education has published six recommendations on adopting artificial intelligence in schools, colleges, and universities. The guidance marks the commission's first release since it was established last February, with more recommendations planned in the coming year.