MC1131064 – (Updated) Microsoft Lens app will retire

Product:

Copilot, Microsoft 365 Apps, Microsoft 365 Copilot, OneDrive

Platform:

Android, iOS, mobile, Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

Retirement, Updated message

Links:

Details:

Summary:
The Microsoft Lens app for iOS and Android will be removed from stores on February 9, 2026, and scanning will stop on March 9, 2026. Users should switch to OneDrive's scan feature. No admin action is needed; notify users accordingly.

Details:
Updated January 9, 2026: We have updated this post to reflect timeline updates. Thank you for your patience.
We will retire the Microsoft Lens app from iOS and Android in a phased approach starting January 9th, 2026. We recommend users to use the scan capability in the OneDrive app.
This change applies to the Microsoft Lens mobile app on iOS and Android.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-08-08

updated:
2026-01-10

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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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Loss of Scanning Functionality
Users will lose the ability to scan documents using the Microsoft Lens app, leading to disruptions in their workflow.
   - roles: End Users, Office Administrators
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/retirement-of-microsoft-lens-fc965de7-499d-4d38-aeae-f6e48271652d

Transition to OneDrive
Users may face challenges adapting to the OneDrive scanning feature, which could lead to confusion and decreased productivity.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/retirement-of-microsoft-lens-fc965de7-499d-4d38-aeae-f6e48271652d

Access to Previous Scans
Users will only be able to access previous scans without support, which may lead to data loss if not properly managed.
   - roles: End Users, Data Managers
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/retirement-of-microsoft-lens-fc965de7-499d-4d38-aeae-f6e48271652d

User Notification and Training Needs
Lack of prior notification may result in users being unprepared for the change, necessitating additional training and communication efforts.
   - roles: End Users, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/retirement-of-microsoft-lens-fc965de7-499d-4d38-aeae-f6e48271652d

Internal Documentation Updates
Existing documentation may become outdated, requiring updates to reflect the new scanning process, which could lead to inconsistencies.
   - roles: Documentation Managers, IT Support
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/topic/retirement-of-microsoft-lens-fc965de7-499d-4d38-aeae-f6e48271652d

Configutation Options**

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you have a favorite tool in your toolbox, like a trusty old screwdriver, that you've used for years. It's been reliable, but now there's a new, more versatile tool available that can do everything your old screwdriver could do and more. In the world of technology, this is similar to what's happening with the Microsoft Lens app.

Microsoft Lens, an app used for scanning documents on iOS and Android devices, is being phased out. Think of it like a store discontinuing a specific brand of screwdriver. By February 9, 2026, you won't be able to find it in the app stores anymore, and by March 9, 2026, it will stop working for new scans. However, you can still access your old scans, much like how you might still have old screws tightened by your old screwdriver.

The good news is that there's an alternative: the OneDrive app. It's like upgrading to a multi-tool that not only tightens screws but also performs a variety of other tasks. OneDrive's scanning feature will replace Microsoft Lens, offering the same functionality and more, integrated into a broader suite of services.

For you, as lawyers, managers, or HR staff, this means you don't need to take any technical actions. It's like when a new tool is introduced in your office, and you just need to inform your team about the change. Encourage your colleagues to start using the OneDrive app for their scanning needs and update any internal guides or instructions to reflect this new tool.

In summary, while Microsoft Lens is being retired, OneDrive offers a seamless transition with its scanning capabilities. It's an opportunity to streamline and enhance your document management processes with a more comprehensive tool.