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Windows RT tablets to launch with stripped-down Office 2013 RT: report

Sources say Microsoft will trim some features from the RT version of its new Office suite to preserve strong Windows RT battery life at launch.

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Citing "sources familiar with the company's plans," Tom Warren at the Verge reports that Microsoft will ship the first batch of Windows RT-powered Surface tablets with a paired-down version of Office 2013 RT.

Among the stripped-out features are "macros, third-party add-ins, and VBA support," and a "'small number of other features," says the Verge's source, who also says you will be able to upgrade to a fully featured version of Office 2013 RT in early 2013. Microsoft has already announced that Office 2013 will be included with all Windows RT-powered devices.

We have contacted Microsoft for further comment, and will update this post when we learn more.

Update: Asked to confirm an earlier Microsoft press release, which states that "Office Home and Student 2013 RT...will be included on ARM-based Windows 8 devices, including Microsoft Surface," a Microsoft spokesperson responded, "that is accurate, but we have not disclosed specific packaging details beyond what is in the press release."