Message ID: MC950892
We will be retiring support for the Filmbox (.FBX) and SketchUp (.SKP) file formats in Microsoft 365 apps on March 1, 2025. Inserting these file formats requires using third-party transcoding packages that are no longer being maintained to our security standards. The two formats are currently off by default. We will continue to support the insertion of other 3D model formats, including OBJ, STL, GLTF, and GLB.
You are receiving this message because our reporting indicates your organization may be using Office 365 apps, which have previously supported .FBX and .SKP files.
Users will no longer be able to insert .FBX or .SKP files after this change is implemented. Note that because 3D models are converted to a shared base format after insertion, all Filmbox and SketchUp models that have already been inserted in Office documents will persist without issue.
This change will happen automatically by the specified date. No admin action is required. Please notify your users about this change, update relevant documentation as appropriate, and advise users that if they wish to insert .FBX or .SKP files going forward, they will need to first convert them outside of Microsoft 365 (or if they are the author of the file, export it to a different format).
Source: Microsoft
The impending retirement of support for .FBX and .SKP file formats in Microsoft 365 apps, effective March 1, 2025, brings both challenges and opportunities for admins and users alike.
For admins, this update means a bit of a juggling act. While there’s no immediate action required from them, they will need to proactively communicate this change to users. It’s a great opportunity to enhance documentation and provide guidance on alternative file formats like OBJ, STL, GLTF, and GLB that will continue to be supported. A little humor here could go a long way: “It’s time to say goodbye to .FBX and .SKP, but don’t worry, there are plenty of fish in the sea—just make sure they’re in the right format!”
Users, on the other hand, may initially feel a pinch of frustration, especially if they have grown accustomed to using these formats. However, it’s important to remind them that any existing .FBX and .SKP files already inserted will remain unaffected. The transition encourages exploration of other 3D model formats that may even enhance their creative capabilities. Encouraging users to convert files beforehand could also be seen as an opportunity to learn new skills.
The overall impact of these changes could be significant. It might streamline processes and enhance security, as reliance on outdated third-party transcoding packages is phased out. This could lead to a smoother, more efficient experience in the long run.
What do you think about these changes? Will it be a smooth transition, or do you foresee some bumps in the road? Let’s hear your thoughts! For more insights, feel free to check out additional posts on mwpro.co.uk.