PowerPoint 2016 - Reuse Slides, cannot browse for files

Anonymous
2019-02-06T22:19:28+00:00

Hello,

I'm having a problem for one user in our organization.  When using PowerPoint 2016 (Office 365) we are not able to browse to a file when using the Reuse Slides function.  The pop-up window appears to be only looking for PowerPoint files on the local computer, SharePoint, and One Drive. I'm not sure if this is an issue with the fetch file function or not.  Below are a few points of interest.

1.  This is only happening with a single user on the computer.  Other users can log in and use the function without issues.

2.  Starting PowerPoint in Safe Mode appears to resolve the problem.  However, disabling all add-ons does not affect the problem.

3.  For the affected user there is an additional "Reuse Slides" button on the ribbon, next to the "New Slide" button, that is not present for other users or in safe mode.

4.  This "Reuse Slides" button cannot be removed from the ribbon.  

Any information would be greatly appreciated, thank you.

Microsoft 365 and Office | PowerPoint | For home | Windows

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Anonymous
2019-03-12T20:02:23+00:00

This is the solution that worked for us.  I have not seen it posted yet so wanted to share:

Disable the below options:​

a.     File --> Options --> General --> Office Intelligent Services​

b.    File --> Options --> General --> Automatically show me design ideas.​

c.     File --> Options --> Trust Center --> Trust Center settings --> Privacy options --> Let Office connect to online Services from Microsoft to provide functionality that's relevant to your usage and preferences. ​

You might have to close powerpoint / reopen after the settings are in place... 

Testing after this and using the Reuse slides option from New Slides dropdown show the Browse option in the Search Bar. ​​

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  1. Anonymous
    2019-04-26T12:36:39+00:00

    Old way is the bad way for me.  I wanted the Button back with the search functionality and finally achieved it.  

    Solution:

    Need to change your channel from Semi-annual to monthly channel.  When you do that you will likely be upgraded to version 1904.  Once you have that upgrade installed, then log out of your account on PowerPoint and log back in.  Once you do that poof, the button reappears.

    Don't know exactly how to achieve the switch from Semi-annual channel to monthly channel.  My IT guy wrote me a batch script for that.  However, if you can figure that part out, you will get your searchable Reuse button back on the Ribbon.

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  2. Anonymous
    2019-04-26T12:17:59+00:00

    Hi,

    We are all frustrated by Powerpoint developers scrapping the "reuse slides" button. Here's a workaround. Just open Powerpoint in SAFEMODE. That is hold down the control key as you click on Powerpoint. Then open your file and select "New file" dropdown and at the bottom is "reuse slides" button. This one will allow you to access your files on your computer the old way, the good way. Try it, it works for me.

    Cheers!

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  3. Anonymous
    2019-04-26T11:32:40+00:00

    Agree with above- the browse feature was there and then it was gone.  Doesn't make any sense at all.  Tried all suggestions and none work.

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  4. Anonymous
    2019-04-25T13:57:55+00:00

    Ira, I think I love you! Thank you so much for posting this solution. I can finally browse for slides again. Hooray!

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