Microsoft is Potentially Bringing Back the People App in Windows 11

The Resurgence of the People App in Windows 11: What You Need to Know

Initially launched in Windows 8, Microsoft’s People app served as an integrated address book and social platform, allowing users to compile contacts from Outlook, Skype, and popular social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Sina Weibo. This comprehensive tool enabled users to stay updated with their contacts’ latest activities, tweets, and photos seamlessly.

However, the landscape changed dramatically as social media platforms evolved, resulting in the app’s deprecation of social media integrations. By the time of Windows 10, the People app had limited its functionality to Skype. In an even steeper decline, the app lost its direct launch capability in 2021, leaving users to access it primarily via icons embedded within the Mail and Calendar applications. With Microsoft moving towards phasing out these native apps, speculation has arisen regarding the potential development of a new People app.

Insights from the Recent Leaks

Recently, a setup file for an upcoming Microsoft People preview app was leaked online. At around 2.6MB, this installation file suggests that the forthcoming application may primarily function as a web app. Interestingly, once installed, users will be able to access it conveniently from the Start menu or pin it to their Taskbar.

People app Windows 11 — Preview of the new People app in Windows 11.

Current Functionality and Future Prospects

As it stands, the People app does not support personal Microsoft accounts. However, when accessed through a commercial or educational account, users can navigate a robust contact list, view detailed contact profiles, and employ a search feature for easy accessibility. The experience mirrors the contact management functionality available in the latest Outlook app for Windows.

The potential revival of the dedicated People app may indeed delight Windows 11 users who depend on efficient contact management. Whether the leaked file represents an old version or signifies Microsoft’s commitment to enhancing user experience with a new People app remains to be seen.

For more visuals related to this development, check out the image provided by @EpicbP.

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