Office.js API — Open OneDrive Files in Current Word/PPT Instance

Currently, Office.js does not provide an API to directly open a OneDrive (or SharePoint Online) file in the current Word/PPT desktop instance.
For add-ins that integrate with external systems, this creates a significant limitation. Users often need to:

• Access Word/PPT documents stored in OneDrive/SharePoint directly from an add-in.
• Ensure the file opens seamlessly in the same Word/PPT session, without forcing them to manually download or open a new instance.

Why this is important

• Improves user workflow and productivity.
• Essential for add-ins that sync or integrate with cloud storage and external systems.
• Avoids user confusion from multiple Word windows or manual file handling.

Requested capability

• An Office.js API such as:
• Office.context.document.openFileFromUrl(fileUrl, options);

where fileUrl is a OneDrive/SharePoint URL and options could specify whether to open in the current instance or a new one.

This would align Office.js capabilities more closely with real-world workflows and reduce friction for both developers and end-users.