editing text in text box in web browser, not in desktop version

Yoshimi Amos 0 Reputation points
2026-10-06T06:55:46.7166667+00:00

I cannot update/edit a textbox on a web browser version?  i tried to add a few morecharacters and i got the message to use the desktop version. 

Microsoft 365 and Office | Excel | For business | Windows
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Elena-VH 1,970 Reputation points Independent Advisor
2026-10-06T07:10:37.56+00:00

Dear Yoshimi Amos,

Thank you for reaching out. If Excel on the web displays a message asking you to use the desktop application when you try to edit a text box, it usually means that the particular text box or its formatting is not fully supported in Excel for the web.​ ‌

In this case, could you please let me know:

  • Is the workbook stored in OneDrive or SharePoint? Do you have Edit permission for the workbook, or is it opened in View Only mode?
  • Is the text box a standard Excel text box, or is it part of a chart, shape, form control, or ActiveX control?
  • Does the issue occur with all workbooks or only one specific file?
  • Are you able to edit other cells and objects in the workbook normally?

In the meantime, please try opening the file in the Excel desktop application and check whether the text box can be edited there. Some advanced objects and features are only editable in the desktop version of Excel. For more information, please refer to Edit a workbook that contains features unsupported by Excel Web App

If possible, please share a screenshot of the message you receive and make sure that you have edit permissions for the file. If you have any questions or if I have misunderstood anything, please feel free to reach out. I'm looking forward to your update.

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  1. Senthil kumar 2,580 Reputation points
    2026-10-06T07:16:11.5833333+00:00

    Hi @Yoshimi Amos

    Common causes:

    • The text box is part of a feature that is read-only in the web version.
    • The content may be in a shape, text box, SmartArt, chart title, or embedded object that can only be edited in the desktop application.
    • The document might be in Compatibility Mode or contain advanced formatting not supported by the browser version.
    • Some web apps allow viewing but require the desktop app for certain editing operations.

    Thanks.

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  2. AI answer

    2026-10-06T06:55:56.47+00:00

    Yes. In Excel for the web, text boxes are not supported, so they cannot be added or viewed there. If a workbook contains a text box, changes to that text box must be made in the Excel desktop application by selecting Open in Excel.

    Also, text boxes created or edited in the desktop app are not shown when the workbook is reopened in Excel for the web.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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