Microsoft Office 2016 Automatic Updates Explained: Branches, Rollouts, and What They Mean for You

Microsoft Office 2016, released in late September 2015, introduced significant changes to its update system, mirroring aspects of Windows 10. This includes automatic updates and multiple branch options designed to balance new features with stability and security.

Here's a detailed look at what this means for your Office 2016 deployment.

Office 2016 Update Branches

Since its launch on September 22, 2015, Microsoft has fielded numerous questions about the new update process. Office 2016 adopts a branch model similar to Windows 10:

The key branches are:

• Current Branch (CB): Delivers monthly updates with new features, security patches, and bug fixes.
• Current Branch for Business (CBB): Quarterly updates with the same content as CB, but staggered to resolve issues first.

Failing to install CB updates, like in Windows 10, can leave you without critical security patches, increasing vulnerability. CBB allows businesses a four-month deferral, but the next update is mandatory to avoid risks. Notably, there's no Long-Term Servicing Branch equivalent, focusing solely on security for extended periods.

When Will You Get Your Update?

Update timing depends on your subscription: Office 365 Business, ProPlus, Home, Personal, or University. For context, Office 365 overview and free upgrade guide provide more details.

We've compiled this rollout table based on Microsoft's schedule:

First Release participants, Office 365 Business, Business Premium, or Small Business Premium users get early access for testing new features, as previewed in Office 2016 previews.

Check Microsoft's guides:

• Update Office 365 Home, Personal, or University
• Upgrade Office 365 Business and Business Premium
• Update Office 365 ProPlus

Accessing First Release

For enrolled organizations:

• Open any Office app and go to File > Account.
• Under Product Information, choose Update Options > Update Now.
• Sign in via Office 365 portal.
• Select Language, then Install. First Release shows at the bottom.
• Apps download in the background; a welcome video follows.

This is exclusive to First Release and specified plans.

What Does This Mean for Users?

Like Windows 10's approach (upgrade details), Office 2016 prioritizes frequent, reliable updates. CB users act as early adopters, providing feedback to refine releases for CBB. This ensures faster features, better security, and predictable planning—less intrusive than past methods.

As experts in Microsoft ecosystems, we see this as a win: consistent updates reduce vulnerabilities, with CBB offering enterprise stability.

Additional Considerations

Most users will update seamlessly via notifications. Office 365 subscribers should monitor timelines. Note: Office 2016 Preview expires in Fall 2015—upgrade or revert to licensed versions, or explore alternatives.

Do you have Office 365? Planning to upgrade? Favorite Office 2016 features? Share in the comments!