Microsoft has started phasing out Microsoft Lens. This means the individual application will no longer be accessible on iOS and Android devices– ending an era for a popular tool that let users scan documents, receipts, whiteboards, and notes straight from their phones. Not to worry though! All these functions will still be available within the Microsoft Office app itself.
As of January 9, 2026, the app officially entered retirement status and will no longer receive updates from Microsoft. This signals its upcoming shutdown– but there is still some time for fans to enjoy their favorite features. Microsoft Lens is being discontinued in a phased approach: February 9, 2026 will see it removed from both the Google Play Store and Apple App Store meaning users won’t be able to download or reinstall the app after that date. And on March 9, 2026 scanning functionality within the app will cease working altogether; although you can use other parts until then too!
Subsequent to that date, users with Microsoft Lens installed will be limited to viewing older documents as long as they stay signed in with the same Microsoft account. However, making new scans will become impossible when the backend services are switched off.
According to Microsoft, they want to make their apps better. So instead of having lots of different apps that do similar things, they are moving features around so there is one app users can use for each task— like scanning documents. And with this change, when you scan something using OneDrive it will automatically be saved in the cloud (online storage). This fits in with a wider push by the software giant for people to work from anywhere using any device; but it also makes sense from an AI perspective too.
First rolled out as Office Lens, the app really took off because it was so simple and dependable. It let people snap pictures and turn them into PDFs, Word docs, etc., usually without needing to subscribe. As time went on, it became the scanning app of choice for students, workers, even small businesses.
Since the closure date is drawing near, Microsoft suggests exporting or backing up valuable scans by March 9th to ensure ongoing access to important files. After Lens ceases operation completely, individuals who like scanning directly onto their device may have to think about using other apps or possibly ones included with their device.
The decision has received varied responses from established users; some appreciated Lens for being simple and standalone, not part of a bigger app. Nonetheless, its discontinuation highlights how Microsoft is increasingly grouping functionalities into single expansive platforms while it reconfigures its suite of mobile applications.
