Starting next month, Microsoft plans to roll out the new Outlook app to all Windows 10 PCs. Here’s the kicker—whether you like it or not, you won’t be able to stop it. That’s right, Microsoft is making the new Outlook installation mandatory as part of Windows Update, and it’s sparking a storm of mixed reactions from the tech community. If you're still clutching onto Mail & Calendar or the classic version of Outlook, bigger changes are headed your way.
Let’s unpack what this update actually entails, explore the criticisms surrounding the new app, and most importantly, provide advice on how to navigate through this forced rollout.
Microsoft is essentially retiring Mail & Calendar to make the new Outlook the one-size-fits-all messaging and scheduling solution. However, there’s growing concern that the replacement doesn’t measure up—more on that in a moment.
This strategy makes sense for Microsoft—standardization across its platforms drives efficiency and compatibility. But for you, the individual Windows user, it could be another example of corporate priorities stripping away user-centric design.
Will users eventually embrace the new Outlook, or will Microsoft be pressured into restoring features and improving performance? Only time will tell, but for now, you might want to brace for the change.
Source: Windows Central The new Outlook will be forced onto Windows 10 PCs next month, and there is no way to block it
Let’s unpack what this update actually entails, explore the criticisms surrounding the new app, and most importantly, provide advice on how to navigate through this forced rollout.
Key Rollout Details
What’s Happening and Why Should You Care?
- Timeline of the Launch:
- Optional Update: The new Outlook will begin rolling out as an optional Windows 10 update starting on January 28, 2025.
- Mandatory Update: The update will transition into the mandatory monthly Windows security update on February 11, 2025.
- What Happens: The new Outlook will be installed on your Windows 10 PC automatically after these updates. However, for now, the classic Outlook will remain untouched, allowing both versions to coexist.
Is This the End of Mail & Calendar?
Absolutely. The Mail & Calendar app, long included with Windows 10, will be completely replaced by the new Outlook. While the legacy app had its limitations, many users appreciated it for being lightweight, functional, and native to Windows.Microsoft is essentially retiring Mail & Calendar to make the new Outlook the one-size-fits-all messaging and scheduling solution. However, there’s growing concern that the replacement doesn’t measure up—more on that in a moment.
So, Why Are People Mad About the New Outlook?
Microsoft pitches the new Outlook as a unified experience, designed to integrate more tightly with Microsoft 365 and Teams. Great in theory, right? Except, there’s one big caveat: the new Outlook is a web app rather than a native one. Let’s examine what critics have to say:1. The Lack of Native Integration
Unlike its predecessor, the new Outlook is built on web technologies (essentially, an adaptation of the Outlook.com interface) rather than acting as a standalone Windows app.- Pro: It allows for uniformity across platforms, so the experience on Windows, Mac, and the web is highly consistent.
- Con: It doesn’t feel like it belongs on Windows. The interface makes use of non-native UI frameworks, so it doesn’t seamlessly blend into the OS like Mail & Calendar did.
2. Missing Features
Fans of Mail & Calendar or classic Outlook are mourning the features they’ll lose when the new version eventually takes center stage. Among the most infuriating gaps:- Basic Productivity Hiccups: For example, the inability to quickly correct misspelled words without using a mouse—a feature that’s available even in Microsoft Word! This makes it harder for users to stay productive while typing emails.
- Touchscreen Shortcomings: If you’re using Windows on a touchscreen device, folder scrolling doesn’t respond properly to touch yet.
- Absence of Core Features:
- Rules: Automating tasks like sorting incoming mail into folders has yet to arrive.
- Macros: Custom automation scripts, a hallmark of legacy Outlook, are expected to be absent.
- Advanced Options: Complex custom views, sharing access, or mailbox organization are extremely limited.
3. Web-Dependent Performance
Being a web app comes with inherent dependencies. Without a fast and reliable internet connection, the app is slower and more prone to bugs. If you're frequently working offline, this change could reduce your efficiency.What Can You Do?
Unfortunately, Microsoft has been very clear: there’s no way to block the installation of the new Outlook completely. However, you still have options to mitigate its impacts:Option 1: Remove It After Installation
- Microsoft does state that you can uninstall the new Outlook after it’s been installed. It remains to be seen how easy or effective this uninstall process will be, particularly in enterprise environments, where IT admins may lack granular controls over app management.
Option 2: Delay Updates
- If you’re comfortable holding off on Windows Updates temporarily, this could delay when the new Outlook arrives. But beware: prolonged avoidance leaves your system vulnerable to security risks since updates often include critical patches.
Option 3: Reach Out to Microsoft
Feedback channels may sway company policies if enough users voice their grievances. Microsoft has reversed policy decisions due to public backlash in the past. Will they do so here? That depends on how loud the opposition gets.Final Word: The Broader Implications
This isn’t just another app update—it’s reflective of Microsoft’s deeper commitment to its cloud-driven ecosystem. By consolidating legacy apps and transitioning everything to cloud-powered web apps, Microsoft is reinforcing its push towards subscription services (hello, Microsoft 365!).This strategy makes sense for Microsoft—standardization across its platforms drives efficiency and compatibility. But for you, the individual Windows user, it could be another example of corporate priorities stripping away user-centric design.
Will users eventually embrace the new Outlook, or will Microsoft be pressured into restoring features and improving performance? Only time will tell, but for now, you might want to brace for the change.
Join the Discussion
Have you tried the new Outlook? Are you dreading this rollout or excited about the transition? Let us know on the forum—your feedback could make all the difference.Source: Windows Central The new Outlook will be forced onto Windows 10 PCs next month, and there is no way to block it
