Microsoft’s new default font for Office apps turns into an overnight TikTok sensation for all the wrong reasons — Here’s how to switch back to Calibri
Aptos, the new default font for Office apps might not be a welcome change for users.
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What you need to know
After what might have seemed like an eternity (15 years to be precise), Microsoft finally decided tochange the default font for its Office apps from Calibri to Aptos (Bierstadt). The company made this announcement last year in July, and the change has beenrolling out to users in waves.
The new default font for Office apps has seemingly shipped to more users, which has beenreceived with a cocktail of mixed feelings. Several users have turned to social media platforms to express their feelings regarding the font change. It has also turned into an overnight sensation, and is currently trending on TikTok.
Users have shared videoshighlighting their shock over the change, which could be an indication that not everyone was aware of Microsoft’s plans to make this change. Some users have even createdturorials showcasing steps to follow for those who’d like to revert to Calbri.
It’s apparent that this change isn’t welcome, at least by most users, if we’re to go by the videos and posts shared online.According to Jim Earley, a seasoned life coach, most people are likely to resist change due to several reasons, including mistrust, insecurity, bad timing, and predisposition.
He also pointed that forcing changes on people abruptly tends to be counterproductive and ineffective. This is why out of the targeted audience, only 20% embrace the change though with a lot of reservations, while the remaining 80% do nothing.
That said, Aptos will now be the default font across Office apps, including Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Excel. The new Office theme also spots a refreshed color palette, style, and line weights. Aptos also includes variants such as narrow, serif, and monospace.
Here are a few steps you can follow to switch back to Calibri if you’re not a big fan of the new default font on Office apps:
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HOW TO CHANGE THE DEFAULT FONT ON OFFICE BACK TO CALIBRI
Users can still revert to the old Office theme, though it has been renamed to Office Theme 2013 – 2022. It’s also worth noting that the change of the default font won’t affect existing documents, just the new documents that you create after the change has rolled out.
For purposes of this guide, I’ll use the New Outlook desktop client while switching back to Calibri as my default font from Aptos.
The new Office theme also ships with increased default outline weights and enhanced consistency between shapes and lines. The new theme also features better contrast. It’s in place to enhance readability while simultaneously promoting professionalism.
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Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. You’ll also catch him occasionally contributing at iMore about Apple and AI. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.
