Windows 10 users, brace yourselves: a shiny (or not-so-shiny) new iteration of the Microsoft Outlook application is making its way onto your machines—automatically, no less. Let’s dig deep into what this means for Windows 10 users and how it fits into Microsoft's broader strategy as the operating system quickly approaches its end-of-support date.
For enterprise customers, Microsoft plans to transition Microsoft 365 users off the classic Outlook no later than 2026. The new version will be the default, though users will still have the ability to revert back temporarily. That grace period won't last forever, though, with full enforcement likely by 2029.
The aggressive rollout now gives enterprise IT departments time to test, feedback, and pressure Microsoft into resolving critical bugs and missing features.
As always, it’s wise to prepare for these types of changes by keeping your systems updated but also maintaining a backup of critical data and settings. After all, technology rollouts can often be as unpredictable as they are exciting.
Have thoughts on this rollout? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments section below! Is New Outlook a premature unveiling, or is this the necessary future? Let’s discuss.
Source: The Register New Outlook marches onto Windows 10 for what little time it has left
New Outlook Automatic Rollout
In a move that's likely to surprise—if not frustrate—some users, Microsoft announced that its new Outlook client will show up on Windows 10 machines via an upcoming update. According to Microsoft's own timeline, the rollouts will be delivered through:- An optional Windows 10 update on January 28, 2025
- The monthly security update on February 11, 2025
What’s New (and What’s Missing) in New Outlook?
Microsoft seems quite enthusiastic about its new, streamlined Outlook. However, it isn’t all smooth sailing for the revamped email client, particularly if you rely on some of Outlook's more advanced features. Here's a breakdown:Key Features Rolling Out Slowly
The new version of Outlook lacks several features from its classic counterpart. One prominent example is limited support for .pst files (Outlook Data Files). If you've used Outlook for years to archive old emails and keep track of projects across different accounts, this is bad news.- .pst File Handling: Currently in its early phases. While you can open these files in the New Outlook interface, large .pst files will freeze the app, and many of its advanced functionality related to .pst files is missing.
- Search Speed: On the bright side, searches in the New Outlook are reportedly faster and produce better results compared to its predecessor.
Side-by-Side Operation
Luckily, Microsoft confirmed that the New Outlook will not replace the Classic Outlook—at least not yet. Both applications can run side-by-side for now, and the company's messaging strongly implies that they want users to voluntarily make the switch.- Configuration Safe Zone: Settings and defaults for Classic Outlook will remain untouched.
- Toggle Option: For those curious, a toggle button allows you to explore the new app without permanently committing (yet).
Why Now? End-of-Life Looms for Windows 10
The timing of New Outlook's arrival is no coincidence. October 14, 2025, marks the official end of most Windows 10 versions' support. With the countdown clock ticking, Microsoft is leaving no stone unturned to prepare users for their next ecosystem migration—namely, Windows 11.For enterprise customers, Microsoft plans to transition Microsoft 365 users off the classic Outlook no later than 2026. The new version will be the default, though users will still have the ability to revert back temporarily. That grace period won't last forever, though, with full enforcement likely by 2029.
The aggressive rollout now gives enterprise IT departments time to test, feedback, and pressure Microsoft into resolving critical bugs and missing features.
How to Save Yourself from Unwanted Outlook Updates
Not a fan of the new Outlook? You do have options—but you’ll need to be proactive.- PowerShell Script Removal:
If you inadvertently find the New Outlook installed on your PC, you can remove it using a custom PowerShell script. These scripts can uninstall the app and prevent future attempts to reinstall it automatically. - Block via Registry Tweak:
For those comfortable tinkering with registry keys, you can apply adjustments to block the New Outlook update. Be cautious, though—modifying the registry can have unintended consequences. - Stay Informed on Update Rollouts:
Microsoft often provides detailed release notes for its optional and Patch Tuesday updates. If you spot the New Outlook in the notes, you can defer the update by pausing updates for 7 days or more.
What Does This Say About Microsoft’s Strategy?
Microsoft's approach to phasing out Classic Outlook, first with optional rollouts and later with mandatory transitions, reflects a broader trend within its ecosystem. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:- Converging Ecosystems:
Windows 10's sunset and Microsoft's push toward Windows 11 reflect the company's long-term aim: a cohesive Microsoft 365 + Windows environment. The New Outlook is likely a harbinger of more unified app rollouts across devices. - Driving Cloud and SaaS Dependency:
The new application works seamlessly with cloud-based ecosystems, tying itself tightly to Microsoft's other services like OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, and Azure AD. - User-Behavior Engineering:
Microsoft is banking on curiosity to drive adoption. With the toggle option, they're trying to lure users into "test driving" the new interface and functionality, hoping they won’t look back. - The “Last Hurrah” for Windows 10 Updates:
With only 8 months left before extended support, this might be one of the last major shifts for Windows 10. Microsoft appears to be using every remaining update as an experiment ground for user feedback and technical scalability.
Looking Ahead—2026 and Beyond
Microsoft has already charted an ambitious roadmap for the transition from Classic to New Outlook:- Windows Users (Personal or Pro): It’s inevitable that Classic Outlook will stop receiving updates by the end of the decade. Expect phased removals across multiple platforms.
- Enterprise Customers: The long timeline for enterprises reflects Microsoft's recognition of entrenched workflows, compliance requirements, and legacy technologies. IT managers will need to carefully test compatibility with mission-critical apps over the next few years.
Conclusion: Is the New Outlook a Win or a Miss?
For some, the New Outlook’s streamlined features and faster search functions might sound like music to their ears. For others—especially those reliant on legacy features like robust .pst file handling—it might feel like an awkward downgrade. Regardless, it’s clear that Microsoft is nudging users toward their vision of a cloud-first, SaaS-driven future.As always, it’s wise to prepare for these types of changes by keeping your systems updated but also maintaining a backup of critical data and settings. After all, technology rollouts can often be as unpredictable as they are exciting.
Have thoughts on this rollout? Feel free to share your opinions in the comments section below! Is New Outlook a premature unveiling, or is this the necessary future? Let’s discuss.
Source: The Register New Outlook marches onto Windows 10 for what little time it has left