Microsoft has repositioned New Outlook as “generally available” (GA) for enterprise customers as previously announced (Consumer GA group since September 2023). The transition of New Outlook to GA status will impact the support for organizational customers, as Microsoft’s support team will officially be able to provide support. Moving from Classic Outlook to New Outlook will remain entirely voluntary with no enforced obligations.
Microsoft touts that New Outlook sharing code with the web version of Outlook enables faster feature updates and bug fixes. Additionally, the user experience between desktop and web versions remains seamless, reducing confusion and easing organizational support.
The key highlight of New Outlook is its integration with Microsoft’s new services, such as Copilot and Microsoft Loop embedded in email content. Real-time content updates, instant file attachments from OneDrive, and shortcuts are among its features.
Microsoft has yet to specify a deadline for transitioning New Outlook to default mode (opt-in only), but promises a 12-month advance notification before the change and another 12-month notice before cutover status. Users of Microsoft 365 with the new app installed will automatically receive New Outlook as a replacement.
The Classic Outlook app will be denoted by “(classic)” appended to the name and will remain functional until at least 2029.
TLDR: Microsoft has made New Outlook generally available for enterprise customers, offering seamless integration with new services and a smooth transition process.
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