Add Shape.setImage(base64EncodedImage) to Office.js Word API for Shape Backgrounds
Currently, the Office.js Word API does not provide a method to set a background image for a shape. In contrast, PowerPoint already supports this functionality through Shape.setImage(base64EncodedImage), which allows developers to dynamically apply images to shapes.
This feature would enable developers to create richer Word documents programmatically, supporting scenarios such as:
- Custom branding in document templates
- Dynamic generation of reports with visual elements
- Automated insertion of diagrams or styled shapes with images
Benefits:
- Consistency across Office.js APIs (Word and PowerPoint).
- Enables advanced document automation and branding scenarios.
- Reduces reliance on workarounds like inserting separate inline images.
1 Comment
Hi, I agree
We understand that Shape support is currently available via WordApiDesktop 1.2 for Windows and Mac.
However, this is a significant blocker for us and our customers, as our solution is primarily used in Word Online.At the moment, the lack of Shape support in Word Online forces us to rely on complex OOXML workarounds, **which are limited and not reliable for our use cases**.
Is Shape support for Word Online actively planned?
If so, is there any timeline, target release window, or internal status you can share?
Even a high-level confirmation (planned / under consideration / not planned) would help us make product decisions.Thanks for your time.
