New Versions of Pages and Numbers

New Versions of Pages and Numbers - Be Very Wary!

2 Feb 2026 09:28:14

Rick Churchill

There is a considerable amount of opposition to the new versions of Pages and Numbers called Pages 15 and Numbers 15. They include adverts and prompts to upgrade to a paid for version at £15/month. I believe, but am not taking the risk, that the old version sits alongside the new but whether clicking on an existing document will automatically launch it within the new version I do not know.

I will wait and see as the old version is not going to be supported beyond the latest upgrade.

The whole idea ofApple products is that they come pre-installed with a free office suite which comes without ads. I think Apple may have shot itself in the foot.

Re: New Versions of Pages and Numbers - Be Very Wary!

4 Feb 2026 16:34:12

Tony Still

Good warning Rick.

These new versions are a consequence of Apple's new 'Creator Studio' software package, a bundle of apps available for a monthly subscription. Some of those had previously to be purchased while the "iWork" apps you list have long been free.

Apple's stated intent is that Creator Studio will include the previously chargeable apps plus some extras for Keynote, Pages, Numbers and Freeform. In the FAQ on this page Apple says:

"You can continue using Keynote, Pages, Numbers and Freeform for [sic] free. And while these apps remain free for everyone, an Apple Creator Studio subscription offers premium templates, a library of high-quality, royalty-free photos and graphics, and powerful intelligence features"

So, for the time being, it should be safe to download and use them; just don't get caught out by any pleas to subscribe. As to the long run, who knows.