Microsoft Office Rebrand Shows How AI Is Reshaping Modern Design

Microsoft Office rebrand has unveiled a subtle yet strategic refresh of its Office icons — the first visual update since 2018. The redesign introduces smoother curves, brighter gradients, and simplified forms, reflecting how artificial intelligence is already influencing the creative process and the future of digital design.

Softer curves, bolder gradients

The update covers the 10 core applications of Microsoft 365, including Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and Excel. While each icon remains faithful to its earlier version, the new compositions are cleaner and more organic. Previously rigid forms now fold gently around each other, paired with more expressive color gradients — a visual shift aligned with today’s more fluid, responsive interfaces.

The Microsoft Word icon, for example, now uses three stacked rectangles instead of four, improving legibility and reducing visual noise — especially important across a multi-platform ecosystem.

Familiar, yet evolved

Despite the modernisation, Microsoft preserved the letter plates (“W”, “P”, “O”, etc.) to ensure instant recognition. According to Jon Friedman, Corporate Vice President of Design and Research for Microsoft 365, the rebrand is “small but significant,” illustrating “how AI is shifting the discipline of design and the nature of product development.”

Friedman explains that the goal was to move away from harsh angles toward softer folds and curves, giving the icons a sense of approachability and playfulness. It’s a natural evolution for a software suite increasingly integrated with automated workflows, predictive interfaces, and intelligent assistance.

Microsoft Office Rebrand evolves as technology evolves

The new icons will roll out to users over the coming weeks across web, desktop, and mobile. This update aligns with Microsoft’s broader design and technology initiatives — including its collaboration with architecture firm Gensler to build hybrid CLT data centers in the United States.

Meanwhile, brand refreshes across the tech world continue to spark conversation. Recent examples include Google’s refined “G” icon and Walmart’s brighter, bolder refresh — both subtle evolutions that maintain brand familiarity. Microsoft’s approach follows a similar philosophy: update without alienating — a balance not all brands manage to achieve in the age of AI.

Written by Otávio Santiago, a multidisciplinary designer exploring the intersection of emotion, form, and technology. His practice spans graphic, motion, and 3D design, bridging digital and physical experiences.