Starting January 2025, get ready for a major shift in your Microsoft 365 experience! Microsoft is rolling out the New Outlook for Windows, and users on Business Standard and Premium licenses will be automatically migrated. This transition will continue gradually until April 2026 for Enterprise users.
This new version promises a sleek interface and exciting features, but it also represents a significant shift towards a more cloud-based and integrated experience within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. It boasts tighter integration with other Microsoft 365 apps like Loop and Teams, reflecting Microsoft’s strategy to create a more unified and collaborative workspace. While this offers many advantages, it also brings some critical changes that you and your organization need to be prepared for. This post will provide you with all the essential information you need to navigate this transition smoothly.
What is the New Outlook for Windows?
The New Outlook for Windows is a redesigned email client that aims to provide a more modern and streamlined experience. It boasts a simplified interface, improved performance, and integration with other Microsoft 365 apps like Loop and Teams. Some of the key features include:
- Enhanced Calendar Tools: Manage your schedule more effectively with improved calendar views and scheduling options.
- Copilot AI Assistant: Leverage the power of AI for smarter email composition, scheduling, and task management.
- Meeting Chat Integration: Seamlessly access meeting chats and related information within the Outlook interface.
- Improved Search: Find emails, contacts, and calendar events faster with enhanced search capabilities.
- Accessibility Improvements: New features make emails more accessible to users with disabilities.
- Streamlined Interface: A cleaner, more modern design with a simplified ribbon and customizable navigation bar.
- Email Management Tools: Pin important emails, snooze messages for later, and schedule emails to be sent at a specific time.
- Offline Support: Access your mail, calendar, and settings even when you’re not connected to the internet.
- Package Tracking: Keep track of your packages directly within the Outlook interface.
Migration Timeline
| User Group | Migration Date |
|---|---|
| Microsoft 365 Business Standard & Premium | January 6, 2025 |
| Microsoft 365 Enterprise | April 1, 2026 |
Pre-installation
It’s important to note that Windows builds after 23H2 already have the New Outlook app pre-installed for all users. This is because it will eventually replace the pre-installed Mail and Calendar apps by the end of 2024.
Impact on Your Organization
- User Experience: Users will experience a new interface and features, which may require some adjustment and training.
- Workflows: Existing workflows that rely on features not available in the New Outlook may need to be adjusted. For example, users who heavily rely on offline access or saving attachments to SharePoint might need to find alternative solutions.
- Compatibility: Ensure compatibility with any existing third-party add-ins or integrations, as some might not be supported in the New Outlook.
- Classic Outlook Support: Rest assured that Classic Outlook will remain fully supported through at least 2029, including all security updates and patches.
Pros and Cons of the New Outlook
| Feature | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Modern, simplified design; improved performance; customizable navigation bar | May require user adjustment and training; some users find it less intuitive |
| Features | Enhanced calendar management; AI-powered assistance; improved search; better integration with other Microsoft 365 apps | Lacks some features of Classic Outlook, such as offline access and support for all web add-ins |
| Performance | Faster loading speeds; smoother operation | Can be resource-intensive for some users |
| Compatibility | Supports most account types, including Microsoft accounts, work or school accounts, and third-party accounts like Gmail and Yahoo | Limited support for saving attachments to SharePoint; no support for PST files |
| Technical Aspects | Built as a progressive web app, offering potential for cross-platform compatibility and faster updates | Being a web app might contribute to some performance limitations and resource consumption |
Training Users on the New Outlook
- Office Training Center: Access training materials and tutorials for all Office applications and services, including Outlook.
- In-App Guidance: The New Outlook includes built-in “show-me” features to help users familiarize themselves with the new interface.
- Microsoft Support: Utilize Microsoft’s support website and documentation for detailed information and troubleshooting.
- Step-by-Step Guide: If you’re using the Outlook app (Version 2303 Build 16227.20318) or the Mail and Calendar apps, you can switch to the New Outlook by turning on the “Try the new Outlook” toggle. Note that you might need to manually sign in to your account in some cases.
Conclusion
The automatic migration to the New Outlook for Windows is a significant change for Microsoft 365 users. While it offers a modern interface, enhanced features, and better integration with the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, it also comes with its own set of limitations and potential challenges. Proactive planning, thorough user training, and clear communication are essential for a successful transition. Explore the resources mentioned in this article, evaluate the potential impact on your organization, and start preparing for the change.
