Processes in Microsoft 365 for setting up Office apps, redeeming product keys, and activating licenses.
Can't open Microsoft 365 for Mac after downloaded on MacBook Pro with M4 chip
On a new MacBook Pro with M4 chip, I downloaded Microsoft 365 and got message installation was complete. However, when attempting to open any of the apps got message: "Microsoft Word cannot be opened because of a problem. Check with the developer to make sure Microsoft Word works with this version of macOS. You may need to reinstall the application. Be sure to install any available updates for the application and macOs." I followed those instructions and reinstalled Microsoft 365 for Mac personal with same issue occurring. Any suggestions?
Microsoft 365 and Office | Install, redeem, activate | For home | MacOS
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AI answer
2025-12-08T23:44:32.4066667+00:00 It sounds like you're encountering an issue with opening Microsoft Word on your new MacBook Pro with the M4 chip. This error can occur if the Office program was moved or duplicated, or if there are compatibility issues with the macOS version you are using. Here are some steps you can try to resolve the issue:
- Check Compatibility: Ensure that the version of Microsoft 365 you downloaded is compatible with your version of macOS. You may need to check for any updates for both the application and your operating system.
- Reinstall Office: Since you have already reinstalled Microsoft 365, make sure to completely uninstall it first using the Microsoft 365 Uninstall troubleshooter. After uninstalling, restart your Mac and then reinstall Microsoft 365 from the official source.
- Check for Updates: After reinstalling, check for any available updates for Microsoft 365 and your macOS. Keeping both updated can help resolve compatibility issues.
- Remove License Files: Sometimes, removing Office license files can help. You can follow the instructions in the Microsoft support documentation to do this.
If the problem persists after trying these steps, you may want to contact Microsoft support for further assistance.
References:
- "Microsoft program cannot be opened because of a problem" error when you start an Office program
- What to try if you can't install or activate Office for Mac
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