Microsoft is advancing the evolution of its Office suite by conducting beta tests for a fresh default theme, which is slated for a public rollout in September 2023.
In an earlier report, we discussed Aptos, the new default typeface soon to be adopted by Microsoft Office. This fresh font is set to take the place of Calibri, which has been the face of Microsoft text for the last 16 years.
With this in mind, Microsoft plans to pair the introduction of Aptos with an updated Office theme. The font’s launch will accompany other design updates including new color schemes, updated line weights, and overall style enhancements for documents.
A striking distinction between the legacy (left side) and the redesigned theme (right side) is in the color adjustments; the default hues have shifted towards deeper and more subtle tones. The move away from bright yellow to dark green stems from the recognition that yellow can be hard to discern on a white canvas.
Microsoft’s aim appears to be a reimagining of their services with a more sophisticated veneer. The former palette came across as whimsical and somewhat budget-oriented. Conversely, the updated colors project a contemporary, distinct, and polished image, befitting the industry’s premier text editing platform.
Initially, Microsoft unveiled these changes to Microsoft 365 Insiders earlier in the year. The tech leader now anticipates that these enhancements will be made universally available come September.
