Is Microsoft Access being phased?

Question

I have heard that Microsoft Access will be phased out in 2025 and it will no longer be available at the end of this year. Is this true?

Answer 1

As the others have already stated there is no truth to that statement.

Ask them to provide a Microsoft document/webpage with such information. They won't be able to.

I can also state that Access is under active development by Microsoft, refer to the official Roadmap to see what is currently being worked on by the Development Team: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=%5B%22Access%22%5D 

It is possible that they are referring to the EOL (end of life) for a specific version. Say Access 2019 EOL whose extended support is Oct 14th, 2025, but that is inconsequential as it will continue to run just fine for years or even decades afterwards and newer versions are always available (Access 2021, Access 2024, Access 365) if wanted.

People may also jump to the conclusion that Access is dead since there's not a single consumer version of Office with Access anymore! But, you can still buy it as a standalone application or via a volume license purchase (if you have access to that) or part of most MS365 subscription plans.

All of this to say Access is still active and isn't being retired in 2025.

Answer 2

This is the same nonsense that we've heard since the first few weeks after Access was launched 30+ years ago.

• Spreading the rumor appears to give some people perverse pleasure.
• Some people misinterpret what they hear or read.
• Some people are simply misinformed and do not bother to seek out accurate information.
  As a matter of fact, you are to be commended for asking the question rather than being sucked in by the rumor.

It's hard to know whether your contact is in the first group, the second group or the third group.

What is true is that Access will be around for at least the next four years.

Answer 3

I have heard that Microsoft Access will be phased out in 2025 and it will no longer be available at the end of this year. Is this true?

I think the best indicator that statement is not true is that Microsoft has very recently setup the Standalone Access: Buy Microsoft Access – Standalone Price & Licence | Microsoft Store

It appears that Microsoft will not be selling Microsoft Professional 2024. This is because Publisher has been retied. Professional version would not be cost effective. Buy Office Home & Business 2024 for PC or Mac – Download & Pricing | Microsoft Store

£250+£160=£400 Office Professional cost £440.

PS: Compare Microsoft Office Volume Licensing Suites | Office LTSC is designed for small businesses. (The Pro Plus version having Access PC Only)

Answer 4

It was from someone who works with a commonwealth government agency, as they have been told that's what's happening and they are building something else to use.

Answer 5

And where did you hear this?

This rumor is no truer now than it has been for the last 25 years or more.