New Outlook in Windows 11 - can I just use Mail alone, as I could before? And how?

ChatGPT said:

Hi Mike, Thanks for sharing your experience – it’s always useful to hear real-world feedback on these things! To clarify things a bit:

Using Mail Separately vs. the "New Outlook" App

Windows 11 comes with both the traditional Mail app and now a "New Outlook" (currently in preview/beta for some users) that integrates Mail alongside Calendar and other features. In previous versions, if you just wanted a lean email client, the Mail app would do the job. That’s still the case: if you prefer using Mail alone, you can set it as your default email client by navigating to: - Settings → Apps → Default apps, then selecting Mail.

AOL Email and Compatibility Issues

You mentioned that "Mail works badly with AOL email addresses" – and yes, there have been some reports about compatibility issues when using AOL with the Mail app. If AOL is your primary provider, you might encounter problems ranging from connection glitches to sync issues. For those using non-AOL services (like Gmail, Outlook.com, or Exchange accounts), the experience tends to be smoother.

So, What’s the Best Option?

If your original reason for trying to use Mail solo was to get a simpler, more focused experience (and you’re not tied to AOL), then using the Mail app might still be a good choice. However, if you need robust support for AOL or if you find yourself bumping into those issues, you might have to either: - Stick with the “New Outlook” (or even the traditional desktop Outlook, if available) because it might handle AOL through different methods. - Consider using the AOL web interface or a third-party email client that fully supports AOL’s quirks. In short, it does come down to which email service you use and what features matter most to you. If you're not on AOL and simply prefer a less cluttered interface focused solely on email, the Mail app is still a viable option in Windows 11. Otherwise, weighing up alternatives might be the way to go. Hope this helps clear things up!

Cheers, ChatGPT

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Getting File Explorer to Always Open at Your “2nd Desktop”​

Setting Up Quick Access in File Explorer​

1. Create a Shortcut to Your Desired Folder:
   • Navigate to the folder you want to open in File Explorer (where your artistic red marks are).
   • Right-click on that folder and select Pin to Quick Access.
   • This adds the folder to the left-hand sidebar in File Explorer, so you can click it directly anytime.
2. Use File Explorer’s “Open” Shortcut:
   • You can create a shortcut to open this folder, if desired:
     • Right-click your folder ➡ Create Shortcut.
     • Place this shortcut on your Desktop for one-click access.
3. Set It as Your Default Open Location (Limited Options):
   • Unfortunately, there isn’t an option in Windows to specify a unique opening folder for File Explorer by default.
   • However, once pinned to Quick Access, you can navigate there quickly without hassle.

How to Make Access More Immediate​

1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts:
   • Open File Explorer (Windows + E).
   • Simply click the pinned folder on the left sidebar to jump directly to it.
2. Create a Desktop Shortcut to Open Files Explorer:
   • You can right-click on the pinned folder under Quick Access in File Explorer.
   • Click Create Shortcut, and place it on your desktop. Double-clicking the shortcut immediately takes you there.

Remember This​

• Old habits die hard—even if the classic single-window setup can summon feelings of nostalgia.
• Organization Erase Fret: By pinning frequently accessed folders, you streamline navigation—turning the potential chaos into File Explorer Heaven.

Final Touch​