A desktop publishing application from Microsoft that focuses on page layout and graphic design.
If Publisher is the Microsoft 365 subscription version, it can still be used with current functionality until October 1, 2026. After that date, Microsoft 365 subscribers will no longer be able to access Publisher, and will no longer be able to open or edit Publisher files in the app.
If Publisher is a perpetual one-time-purchase version, it can still be installed and used after support ends. Support for that perpetual version ends on October 13, 2026, but the app can still continue to function.
For existing files, the recommended preparation is to convert important .pub files before the retirement date:
- Open the Publisher file.
- Go to File > Save as.
- Choose a save location.
- Select PDF as the file type and save.
If editing is still needed later, one supported path is:
- Convert the Publisher file to PDF.
- In Word, go to File > Open.
- Open the PDF.
- Select OK in the dialog box.
- Word opens it as an editable document.
The converted Word file is optimized for text editing, so the layout can differ from the original, especially for graphics-heavy publications.
For large numbers of files, bulk export by PowerShell automation is also mentioned as an option.
For replacement apps, Microsoft states that many common Publisher scenarios are already available in Word and PowerPoint, including branded templates, envelopes and labels, calendars, business cards, and programs.