Microsoft discusses the benefits of New Outlook for Windows while addressing criticism

Microsoft discusses the benefits of New Outlook for Windows while addressing criticism

Microsoft’s New Outlook: A Response to Critics

In April, we explored the feedback from system and IT administrators regarding the New Outlook for Windows app. The consensus among many users was that the new version was far from satisfactory, with numerous opinions labeling it as “hot garbage.”

Microsoft’s Counterarguments and New Features

However, Microsoft has taken a different stance. They recently unveiled a blog post highlighting upcoming features and improvements for the New Outlook. The tech giant touts a restructured “agile codebase” and revamped design, which they claim enhance the application’s stability, performance, and security when compared to the classic version. Notably, they detail several features that were previously unavailable:

Outlook for Windows’ new agile codebase has made it easier for stability, performance and security by design. We deliver features that were never implemented in classic Outlook.

Now, you can enjoy top-requested features in Outlook like pinning important emails, tabbed search to find people, files and Teams messages more easily, iCal sync, scheduled mail, new themes and colored mailbox folders, and more.

Performance Evaluation: Subjective Yet Valid

While some of Microsoft’s claims regarding performance may be subjective, it can’t be ignored that there have been notable issues with the classic Outlook. Recent updates, particularly one focused on calendar features, have led to various malfunctions in the classic app. Users have reported crashes during basic functions like opening and sending emails—actions essential to any email client.

Enhancements to the User Experience

In their latest communication, Microsoft also introduced improvements to the Shared mailbox functionality. This includes a new “Shared with me” page that allows users to manage permissions on shared folders and mailboxes effectively, streamlining access issue resolution.

Additionally, Microsoft’s ongoing integration of Copilot into the app is set to boost user productivity. Monthly updates will introduce features such as Chat side pane, Summarize, Drafts, Schedule from Email, and “Prioritize my Inbox” for business users.

Offline Support and Data Management

New Outlook is getting additional offline capabilities, including support for PST files, which Microsoft recently confirmed as an enhancement. This functionality is crucial for users who rely on offline access to their emails and data.

PST file support in New Outlook

Device Synchronization Improvements

Microsoft emphasizes that switching between devices has significantly improved, thanks to a unified codebase. Users of web and mobile versions can now enjoy many of the same innovations and classic features being rolled out for the Windows version of Outlook.

Encouraging Transition to New Outlook

Microsoft encourages users who are still utilizing the classic Outlook app to make the transition to the New Outlook. They suggest utilizing a toggle feature in the classic app that allows users to test the new experience without losing their settings or data:

The transition to Outlook for Windows is intended to be gradual, allowing you ample time to explore and become comfortable with its new capabilities. We recommend using the toggle in classic Outlook to try the updated Outlook for Windows experience. This will copy your settings, forward your protocols, and provide a welcoming experience.

We encourage you to spend as much time as possible working in the updated Outlook experience. This will help you fully experience its enhanced capabilities and discover new, efficient ways of communicating.

Get Involved: Share Your Thoughts

If you’d like to read more about Microsoft’s perspective, you can view the complete blog post here on Microsoft’s official Tech Community website.

What are your thoughts? Have you transitioned to the New Outlook yet, or do you still prefer the classic version? We welcome your comments below.

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