check before: 2025-10-01
Product:
Microsoft 365 admin center, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 suite, SharePoint
Platform:
Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant
Status:
Launched
Change type:
New feature, User impact, Admin impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Microsoft Word's eSignature feature will support free text fields starting October 2025, allowing users to collect custom signer information. This feature is on by default for tenants with eSignature enabled, requires no admin changes, and has no impact unless eSignature is active.
Details:
[Introduction:]
We're adding support for free text fields in eSignature requests within Word. This enhancement allows users to collect custom information-such as job title, phone number, address, or full name-from signers, improving flexibility and alignment with real-world document workflows.
This update is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 499024.
[When this will happen:]
General availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out in early October 2025 and expect to complete by early January 2026.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability
Created:
2025-09-13
updated:
2025-09-13
Task Type
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Docu to Check
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MS How does it affect me
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MS Preperations
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MS Urgency
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MS workload name
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linked item details
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Pictures
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summary for non-techies**
Microsoft is enhancing its eSignature feature in Word by adding support for free text fields, allowing signers to input specific information like job titles or phone numbers directly in digital documents, with the rollout starting in October 2025 and completing by January 2026.
Direct effects for Operations**
User Experience Impact
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are not aware of the new free text field feature in eSignature, leading to potential misuse or underutilization of the feature.
- roles: End Users, Helpdesk Staff
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/documentprocessing/esignature-overview?view=o365-worldwide, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=499024
Operational Impact
Helpdesk staff may receive an increased volume of support requests related to the new feature, impacting their ability to assist with other issues due to lack of preparation and documentation updates.
- roles: Helpdesk Staff, IT Administrators
- references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/documentprocessing/esignature-overview?view=o365-worldwide, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=499024
Configutation Options**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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Last updated 1 month ago ago
