500395 – Outlook: See progress when running rules manually in the new Outlook for Windows and Web

Product:

Outlook, Windows

Platform:

US Instances, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

Links:

Details:

When you choose “Run Rule Now” in Outlook, you’ll now see a visual progress indicator in both the message list and the rules page, showing that the rule is actively being applied. This helps confirm the action is in progress especially for large mailboxes, so you’re not left wondering if anything is happening. #newoutlookforwindows

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-10-02

updated:
2025-12-18

Docu to Check

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Experience Impact from Change in Outlook Rules
Users may experience confusion or frustration if the visual progress indicator is not functioning properly, leading to uncertainty about whether their rules are being applied, especially in large mailboxes.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/run-a-rule-now-in-outlook-5c1c1c1b-1c1c-1c1c-1c1c-1c1c1c1c1c1

Performance Impact on Outlook Application
If the new progress indicator feature is not optimized, it could lead to slower performance of the Outlook application, affecting user productivity and satisfaction.
   - roles: End Users, System Administrators
   - references: https://www.techradar.com/news/microsoft-outlook-2023-review

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you're at a busy airport, waiting for your luggage to appear on the baggage carousel. In the past, you might have just stood there, unsure if your bag was on its way or if it had been left behind. Now, imagine there's a screen above the carousel that shows you exactly where your bag is in the process, giving you peace of mind that it's on its way.

Similarly, in the new Outlook for Windows and Web, when you manually run a rule to organize your emails, a visual progress indicator now appears. This is like that airport screen, showing you that the rule is actively being applied to your emails. This is particularly helpful for those with large mailboxes, as it provides assurance that the process is underway, and you’re not left wondering if anything is happening.

This change is designed to make your experience more transparent and less stressful, much like knowing where your luggage is when traveling. It’s a small but significant improvement that helps you manage your emails more efficiently.