Microsoft Office 2016 Adds Built-In Skype, Collaboration Tools

Microsoft Corp.’s new Office software will incorporate Internet-connected features such as Skype and the Cortana digital assistant in both its cloud and packaged versions, underscoring the importance of installed software even as the company focuses on moving customers to subscriptions.

Office 2016 offers flagship productivity applications like Word and Excel, with added tools for videoconferencing, voice commands and collaboration, such as letting two people type in the same document simultaneously and see each other’s work instantly, said John Case, vice president for Office.