MC946791 – (Updated) Microsoft Outlook for iOS and Android: Minimize the compose window to multitask in the Outlook app (archived)

Product:

Exchange, Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook

Platform:

Android, iOS, Online, US Instances, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Feature update, Updated message, User impact

Links:

470304

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft Outlook for iOS and Android will soon allow users to minimize draft emails and access them from the message list or calendar view. This feature will roll out from early January 2025 to late May 2025. No admin action is required, but users should be informed and documentation updated.

Details:
Updated May 7, 2025: We have updated the timeline below. Thank you for your patience.
Coming soon for Microsoft Outlook for iOS and Android: Minimize draft emails and quickly access them again from the message list or calendar view.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 470304.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High): We will begin rolling out early January 2025 and expect to complete by late May 2025 (previously late April).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2024-12-03

updated:
2025-05-08

Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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MS Urgency

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linked item details

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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

Microsoft Outlook for iOS and Android will introduce a feature from January to May 2025 that allows users to minimize draft emails for easy access from the message list or calendar view, enhancing multitasking without losing draft progress.

Direct effects for Operations**

User Experience Disruption
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are not informed about the new minimize feature, leading to potential inefficiencies in email composition.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Increased Support Queries
Without prior communication, users may reach out to support for assistance with the new feature, increasing the volume of support queries and impacting response times.
   - roles: Support Staff, IT Administrators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Documentation Gaps
Existing documentation may not reflect the new feature, leading to misinformation and user errors when trying to utilize the minimize function.
   - roles: End Users, Content Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Training for Multitasking Features
With the introduction of the minimized compose window, users can benefit from training sessions that focus on how to effectively use this feature to enhance their productivity. Providing tutorials or workshops can ensure users are aware of how to utilize the new functionality to its fullest potential, leading to improved efficiency in email management.
   - next-steps: Develop training materials and schedule sessions for users to familiarize them with the new feature. Consider creating video tutorials and FAQs to support learning.
   - roles: Productivity Managers, Training Coordinators, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Improved User Documentation
Updating user documentation to include the new feature will help users understand how to access and utilize the minimized compose window effectively. Clear, concise documentation can reduce confusion and enhance user experience.
   - next-steps: Review and update existing documentation to include details about the new feature, ensuring it is easily accessible to all users. Consider creating quick reference guides.
   - roles: IT Support Staff, Documentation Specialists, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Feedback Mechanism for Continuous Improvement
Establishing a feedback mechanism for users to share their experiences with the new feature can provide valuable insights for future updates and improvements. This can help IT identify any issues or additional training needs.
   - next-steps: Implement a feedback form or survey for users to fill out after they have used the new feature. Analyze the feedback to identify trends and areas for improvement.
   - roles: IT Managers, User Experience Researchers, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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