Microsoft Updates Windows: New Outlook and Classic Switching Features for Users

Microsoft Updates Windows: New Outlook and Classic Switching Features for Users

Improving User Experience: Microsoft’s Outlook Transition Plan

The phrase “hot garbage”reflects the frustrations many users have expressed regarding Microsoft Outlook, particularly due to a lack of essential features such as PST file support and offline functionality. This dissatisfaction has been further exacerbated by Microsoft’s approach to software updates, especially with the introduction of New Outlook.

Challenges with Switching Between Outloook Versions

Users have faced significant challenges when transitioning between the Classic and New Outlook interfaces. The cumbersome process of switching back and forth has left many feeling disenchanted. However, Microsoft appears to be acknowledging these concerns and is taking steps to address them.

New Transition Features Enhanced

A recent update on the Microsoft 365 Admin Center portal outlines significant improvements that will streamline the user experience. Users will soon have the ability to utilize Classic Outlook without needing to fully exit New Outlook. According to Microsoft:

Before this rollout, if users switch from classic Outlook to new Outlook, they must switch back to use classic Outlook again.

After this rollout, users will be able to use classic Outlook without switching out of new Outlook. When users select the toggle in new Outlook, they will have the option to open classic Outlook or switch back to classic Outlook.

If users choose to open classic Outlook, it will launch right away without requiring the user to switch back.

If users choose to switch back to classic Outlook, new Outlook will be minimized in the taskbar and classic Outlook will launch, allowing users to seamlessly use both apps. New Outlook notifications and reminders will be suppressed for that session while classic Outlook notifications will be displayed.

Rollout Timeline for New Features

Microsoft has also outlined a timeline for the implementation of these changes, which is set to begin in May and conclude by July:

General Availability (Worldwide, GCC): We will begin rolling out the default behavior to keep new Outlook minimized after a user switches out of new Outlook in mid-May 2025, with completion expected by late May 2025.

General Availability (Worldwide, GCC): An option to open classic Outlook without switching out of new Outlook will start rolling out in early June 2025, anticipated for completion by late July 2025.

Accessing Updates

For those with access to the Microsoft 365 Admin Center portal, this new functionality can be found under ID MC1066342. This change represents a positive shift towards accommodating user preferences, enhancing productivity, and ultimately contributing to a better overall experience with Microsoft Outlook.

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