Microsoft has backflipped on its licensing policy on Office 2013, now allowing users the ability to purchase the retail version and able to transfer it to another computer even when the computer failed and they had to get a new one.
The new licensing terms now say:
Can I transfer the software to another computer or user? You may transfer the software to another computer that belongs to you, but not more than one time every 90 days (except due to hardware failure, in which case you may transfer sooner). If you transfer the software to another computer, that other computer becomes the “licensed computer.” You may also transfer the software (together with the license) to a computer owned by someone else if a) you are the first licensed user of the software and b) the new user agrees to the terms of this agreement before the transfer. Any time you transfer the software to a new computer, you must remove the software from the prior computer and you may not retain any copies.
Basically, the new policy is:
- You still can only install Office 2013 on one computer
- You can “transfer” Office to another computer no more than one time every 90 days (unless your computer failed, then you can transfer it sooner). Once it has been transferred, you must remove the software from the previous computer.
Previously, Office 2013 did not let you transfer the installation to a new computer, even if the computer had failed (unless it was under warranty). The rights and restrictions for the retail version of Office 2013 were similar to the Product Key Card of Office 2010 (where you basically unlock the full version of Office on laptops with it preinstalled).
It has been no secret that Microsoft has been pushing more and more users towards its subscription service Office 365, as having such a model allows Microsoft to have a consistent source of revenue. Of course, it has the added benefit of letting you have the latest version; but, similar to mobile plans, you’re paying more than simply purchasing outright in the long-run.