Some OneNote users hit with read-only notice: What’s going on?

A strange pop-up has started showing up for some OneNote users, and it’s causing a stir. People like Redditor Scooby359 are opening the app to find a message saying their version is now “read-only” unless they upgrade to a full Microsoft 365 subscription. Scooby359, who has a Microsoft 365 Basic plan for extra OneDrive storage, said, “Been using OneNote fine for years like this, but today when I opened it, I got this pop-up message saying it’s now read-only unless I pay for a full 365 subscription.” This has left long-time users confused and annoyed.

The same thing happened to another user, pierrechaquejour, who saw a message that read, “Continue for free,” when they opened OneNote. It’s a weirdly vague note that’s got people worried about what’s next for the app’s free features. On Reddit, users like Vasto_lorde97 and RodiV started talking about switching to apps like Apple Notes or Obsidian instead. The frustration is real, and it’s growing.

Here’s the deal. Microsoft 365 Basic, which costs $1.99 a month, covers web and mobile versions of Office apps, including OneNote. But it doesn’t include the full desktop version. Scooby359 was using the Windows Store app, which is technically the mobile version (UWP), and it worked fine for editing until now. It seems Microsoft might be tightening the rules on what’s allowed under cheaper plans. The pop-up also mentioned needing an internet connection every 90 days and agreeing to a new license, which adds to the confusion.

Ever since the 365 branding came into play, Microsoft has always said the Basic plan doesn’t include desktop OneNote. So why the sudden change? Some think it’s linked to the retirement of OneNote for Windows 10, set for October 2025, as the company moves everyone to a single OneNote app. For now, affected users can still edit notes on the web version at Microsoft365.com. But the desktop app restrictions have folks like NeverFated upset, who said, “I really hate the idea of being at some tech giant’s mercy and having no control of what I’m allowed to use.”

Is this a glitch or a sign of bigger changes? No one’s sure yet. Users should check their subscriptions and try the web version as a fix for now if they can’t get past. I’ll keep an eye out for any further developments and will update the article if there’s something to share. Feel free to let me know if you noticed the same message pop-up while trying to use OneNote on your PC.