Microsoft apps

The following Microsoft apps have been approved to support learning & teaching in Edinburgh schools.

NB: for any item of software where accounts needed to be created, schools should ensure they are following the protocols outlined in the User Account Management Guide.

App	More Info
Authenticator	Microsoft Authenticator is an app that helps keep your accounts safe by adding an extra layer of security. Instead of just using a password, it asks for a second step, like a code or a notification on your phone, to make sure it’s really you. The app works well with Microsoft accounts and other services, and it can even let you sign in without a password. It also helps store and fill in passwords securely and makes it easy to recover your account if you lose access. Microsoft Authenticator
Edge	Microsoft Edge is a web browser that’s designed for speed, security, and ease of use. It has built-in features to protect you while browsing, like blocking harmful websites and helping keep your data private. Edge also includes tools to help you stay organized, like a collections feature for saving and organizing webpages. It works well with Microsoft services and can sync your bookmarks, passwords, and settings across different devices, so your browsing experience is the same everywhere. Microsoft Edge
Lens	Microsoft Lens is an app that turns your smartphone into a powerful scanning tool. It lets you quickly capture documents, whiteboards, or handwritten notes by taking a picture and then automatically enhancing the image for clarity. You can save these scans as PDFs, Word documents, or images and even extract text from them using OCR (Optical Character Recognition). Lens also integrates with Microsoft Office, allowing you to easily share and edit your scans in apps like OneNote, Word, or OneDrive. It’s a handy tool for organizing and digitizing your notes and documents on the go. Microsoft Lens
Loop	Microsoft Loop is a flexible, collaborative workspace that allows teams to work together seamlessly on dynamic content across various Microsoft 365 apps. It consists of three main components: Loop components, Loop pages, and Loop workspaces. Loop components are small, portable pieces of content like lists, tables, or notes that can be shared and updated in real-time across apps like Teams, Outlook, and Word. Loop pages are flexible canvases where you can organize and work on these components, while Loop workspaces are shared spaces where teams can collaborate on projects, track progress, and manage tasks together. Microsoft Loop is designed to make teamwork more fluid and adaptable, breaking down barriers between apps and keeping everyone on the same page. Microsoft Loop
Minecraft: Education Edition	Minecraft Education is a special version of Minecraft designed for learning in the classroom. It allows students and teachers to explore subjects like math, science, history, and coding through interactive and engaging gameplay. The game includes unique features like lesson plans, a classroom mode for teachers to manage students, and tools that encourage collaboration and problem-solving. Minecraft Education also supports creativity and critical thinking by letting students build and explore virtual worlds while learning real-world concepts. It’s a fun and flexible way to make education more interactive and exciting. Minecraft Education
Office	Office 365 is a subscription-based service from Microsoft that provides access to a suite of productivity tools, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. It also includes cloud storage with OneDrive, allowing you to store and access your files from anywhere. Office 365 offers regular updates, ensuring you always have the latest features and security improvements. It’s designed to support collaboration, letting you work with others in real-time on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Additionally, it integrates with other Microsoft services, making it a comprehensive solution for both personal and professional productivity. Microsoft 365 (Office 365)
OneDrive	OneDrive is Microsoft’s cloud storage service that lets you store, access, and share your files from anywhere. It allows you to save documents, photos, and videos online and sync them across all your devices, so you always have the latest version at hand. OneDrive also includes features for secure file sharing, making it easy to collaborate with others. With built-in security measures like file encryption and ransomware detection, OneDrive helps keep your data safe. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Office, enabling you to work on your documents directly from the cloud. OneDrive
OneNote	OneNote is a digital note-taking app from Microsoft that helps you organize your thoughts, ideas, and information in one place. It allows you to create notes with text, images, audio, and even drawings, making it versatile for capturing all kinds of content. You can organize your notes into notebooks, sections, and pages, which makes it easy to keep everything sorted. OneNote also supports collaboration, allowing you to share and work on notes with others in real-time. It syncs across all your devices, so your notes are always accessible, whether you’re on your computer, tablet, or phone. OneNote
Outlook	Outlook is an email and calendar app from Microsoft designed to help you manage your communications and schedule efficiently. It allows you to send and receive emails, organize your inbox with folders and filters, and keep track of important messages. Outlook also integrates a calendar where you can schedule meetings, set reminders, and plan your day. Additionally, it includes features like contact management, task lists, and the ability to sync across devices, ensuring that you can stay on top of your work and personal life no matter where you are. Outlook
Planner	Microsoft Planner is a task management tool that helps teams organize and track their work. It allows you to create plans, assign tasks, set due dates, and track progress visually using boards and charts. Each task can include details like descriptions, attachments, and checklists, making it easy to manage complex projects. Planner integrates with other Microsoft 365 apps, like Teams and Outlook, so you can collaborate seamlessly with your team and stay updated on task status. It’s designed to simplify project management, helping teams stay organized and meet their goals. Microsoft Planner
Teams	Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that combines chat, video meetings, file sharing, and app integration in one place. It allows teams to communicate in real-time through text messages, voice calls, and video conferences, making it easy to stay connected whether you’re working remotely or in the office. Teams also supports group collaboration with channels where team members can share files, collaborate on documents, and organize their work. It integrates with other Microsoft 365 apps, like Outlook, OneDrive, and Planner, enabling a seamless workflow. Teams is designed to enhance productivity and make teamwork more efficient and effective. Microsoft Teams
To Do	Microsoft To Do is a task management app that helps you organize your daily activities and stay on top of your tasks. It allows you to create to-do lists, set reminders, and prioritize tasks with due dates and notes. You can organize your tasks into different lists, such as work, personal, or shopping, making it easy to manage various aspects of your life. The app syncs across all your devices, so your tasks are always up to date, no matter where you are. To Do also integrates with other Microsoft apps like Outlook, allowing you to manage your tasks within your existing workflow. Microsoft To Do
Translator	Microsoft Translator is a translation app and service that helps you translate text, speech, and even images in real-time. It supports multiple languages and allows you to have conversations with people who speak different languages by translating spoken words on the fly. You can also use it to translate signs, menus, and documents by taking a picture. Microsoft Translator integrates with other Microsoft products like Office and Teams, making it easy to use in your daily work. It’s a powerful tool for overcoming language barriers and communicating more effectively in different languages. Microsoft Translator
Whiteboard	Microsoft Whiteboard is a digital collaboration tool that allows you and your team to brainstorm, draw, and share ideas in a virtual space. It provides an infinite canvas where you can write, draw, add sticky notes, and insert images, making it ideal for creative thinking and problem-solving. The whiteboard can be used in real-time during meetings, allowing everyone to contribute simultaneously, whether they are in the same room or working remotely. It integrates with other Microsoft apps like Teams and OneNote, making it easy to capture and continue your ideas across different platforms. Microsoft Whiteboard is designed to make collaboration more interactive and engaging. Microsoft Whiteboard