Microsoft to Retire Mail, Calendar, and People Apps by 2024: What You Need to Know

In a bold move that's sure to rattle the ranks of Windows users, Microsoft has announced plans to cut support for the beloved Mail, Calendar, and People applications by December 31, 2024. The clock is ticking, and for many who have relied on these tools for their daily scheduling and email management, the change may come as a shock.

The Transition to a New Outlook​

Microsoft’s decision marks a significant shift from classic desktop applications as the company pushes users toward its new Outlook for Windows. This transition has been ongoing for some time as Microsoft has slowly migrated users to the revamped, web-based Outlook, which officially launched in August. The new interface aims to provide a seamless integration of email and scheduling functions that many have grown accustomed to over the years.

What Does This Mean for Users?​

For users who have not yet made the switch to the new Outlook app, the implications are clear. Microsoft has issued a cautionary note: after the cutoff date, those still using Mail, Calendar, and People will lose the ability to send and receive emails, rendering the applications effectively useless. This effectively forces users off the platform, as the old guard makes way for the new.

• Stop Date: December 31, 2024
• Affected Apps: Mail, Calendar, and People on Windows
• Alternative: New web-based Outlook

Support for Existing Versions​

Fear not, loyal Outlook aficionados! For those with classic Outlook installed via permanent and subscription licenses, Microsoft assures that support will continue until at least 2029. This phased approach suggests a measured transition away from older software rather than a sudden cut-off, offering a glimmer of hope for those resistant to change.

Microsoft’s Long-Term Vision​

Moving forward, the plan entails engaging enterprise customers with thoughtful migration strategies, providing them with 12 months of notice before transitioning from the desktop versions of Outlook. Microsoft clearly understands the complexities involved in such a switch and is taking deliberate steps to minimize disruption for its business users.

What Comes Next?​

Once the Mail, Calendar, and People apps hit the chopping block, Microsoft will then begin allowing users to opt-out of the new Outlook—though specifics on what that will look like remain hazy. Transition and adaptation are expected to be gradual, aligning with Microsoft's historical approach to software updates and changes.

Broader Industry Implications​

This decision reflects broader trends in software development, where web-based applications are becoming the norm. As more users migrate to the cloud—seeking real-time collaborative tools—the push for lighter, more integrated solutions seems inevitable. The move away from traditional desktop applications may also hint at a future where companies prioritize unified platforms over segmented software solutions.

What Should Users Do Now?​

As the release date looms, users should take proactive steps:

1. Upgrade to the New Outlook: If you haven’t already, it's time to switch to the new web-based Outlook to ensure continuity in your email management and calendar functions.
2. Backup Important Data: Always a good practice—export important emails and calendar events from your current applications.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the New Interface: Explore the new Outlook feature set to fully take advantage of improvements and changes.
4. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on future updates from Microsoft, as they’ll likely provide more guidance on the transition process.

Conclusion​

The end of an era is upon us, and while we bid adieu to Mail, Calendar, and People, a new horizon—embodied in the new Outlook—beckons. For many users, this change represents an opportunity to embrace a more integrated digital experience, though it undoubtedly comes with a sense of nostalgia for the apps that have served us well over the years.
As always, let’s keep the conversation going—what are your thoughts on Microsoft's decision? Are you ready to make the jump to the new Outlook? Join us on the forum to share your experiences and preparation strategies!

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Source: ITC.ua Microsoft will cut Mail, Calendar, and People on Windows by the end of this year. Outlook on Windows is next