485755 – Outlook: Read-only access to contacts within a PST file in new Outlook for Windows

Product:

Outlook, Windows

Platform:

Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Links:

Details:

With this update of support for .pst files (a.k.a. Outlook Data File) in the new Outlook for Windows, users will be able to browse and read contacts within a .pst file. Future releases of new Outlook will expand the support for .pst file capabilities. #newoutlookforwindows #pstfilesupport.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-03-20

updated:
2026-02-06

Docu to Check

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

The latest update to Outlook for Windows allows users to access PST file contacts in a read-only mode, meaning they can view but not edit or add new contacts directly within the PST file.

Direct effects for Operations**

Limited User Functionality
Users will only have read-only access to contacts in PST files, limiting their ability to edit or manage contacts effectively.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/outlook-blog/outlook-read-only-access-to-contacts-within-a-pst-file-in-new/ba-p/3731230

Increased Support Queries
The change may lead to an increase in support queries from users who are confused about the new limitations on PST file access.
   - roles: IT Support Staff, Help Desk Agents
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/outlook-blog/outlook-read-only-access-to-contacts-within-a-pst-file-in-new/ba-p/3731230

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

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