Microsoft to Retire Visio Data Visualizer Add-In for Excel
Recently, we spotlighted the array of fresh features introduced by Microsoft in Excel for October 2025. However, with the introduction of new capabilities, the technology giant from Redmond, Washington, has also decided to retire certain functionalities. One significant change is the upcoming discontinuation of the Visio Data Visualizer add-in.
Overview of the Visio Data Visualizer Add-In
The Visio Data Visualizer add-in, which has been instrumental for many users, allows for the seamless conversion of spreadsheet data into Visio diagrams, including flowcharts. A major advantage has been that users could utilize this feature without needing a separate Visio license, making it accessible to a broader audience.
Retirement Schedule
Microsoft has announced that this add-in will be retired on December 8, 2025. While the exact reasons for its discontinuation have not been disclosed, it appears that Microsoft may be pivoting towards encouraging users to utilize Visio directly for similar functions.
Access and Backup Procedures
Users will still have access to the Visio Data Visualizer from the Excel ribbon and AppSource until the retirement date. After December 8, all related templates will be removed from the add-in store, and the ability to create new diagrams will no longer be available.
However, users need not worry just yet. They will have until March 2, 2026, to back up their existing diagrams. Microsoft 365 subscribers are advised to save their diagrams in the.vsdx format and subsequently open them in Visio for the web. For non-commercial users, the option to export diagrams as image files remains available. Detailed instructions can be found in the official blog post from Microsoft.
What’s Next for Users
Post-retirement, while the data refresh functionalities and Visio diagrams embedded within Excel will cease to load after the backup date, Microsoft assures users that the underlying data will remain intact.
For those seeking alternatives, Microsoft recommends transitioning to Visio Plan 2 and the desktop version of Visio. Users are also encouraged to share their feedback about Visio through the dedicated feedback portal to help shape the product’s future.
For further information, check out the full story on Neowin.
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