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

Product:

Exchange, Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook

Platform:

Android, iOS, Online, US Instances, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

Feature update, Updated message, User impact

Links:

470304

Details:

Updated February 19, 2025: We have updated the rollout 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 March 2025 (previously early February).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2024-12-03

updated:
2025-02-20

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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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Interface Changes
Users may struggle to adapt to the new minimize feature, leading to confusion and decreased productivity during the transition period.
   - roles: End Users, Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Training and Documentation
Existing training materials may become outdated, requiring immediate updates to ensure users understand the new functionality, potentially leading to user errors.
   - roles: Training Coordinators, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Increased Support Requests
The introduction of the new feature without prior preparation may lead to an increase in support requests as users encounter issues or have questions about the new functionality.
   - roles: Support Staff, IT Helpdesk
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Productivity
The ability to minimize draft emails will allow users to multitask more effectively, accessing necessary information from their calendar or other emails without losing their current work. This can significantly reduce the time spent switching between different views, thereby improving overall productivity.
   - next-steps: Conduct training sessions or create instructional materials to educate users on the new feature and its benefits. Monitor user feedback to assess the impact on productivity and make adjustments as needed.
   - roles: Marketing Team, Sales Team, Project Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Improved Email Management
With the new feature, users can manage their drafts more efficiently, reducing clutter in the Drafts folder and streamlining the email composition process. This can lead to better organization and faster email turnaround times.
   - next-steps: Implement a review of current email management practices and encourage users to adopt the new minimizing feature for better organization. Consider integrating this into the onboarding process for new employees.
   - roles: Administrative Staff, Customer Support, Executive Assistants
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=470304

Reduction in Training Time for New Users
The streamlined interface with the minimize feature can simplify the learning curve for new users, allowing them to adapt to Outlook more quickly and efficiently. This can result in reduced training costs and faster onboarding.
   - next-steps: Develop quick-start guides and video tutorials that highlight the new feature and its benefits. Evaluate the effectiveness of these materials through feedback from new users.
   - roles: HR Trainers, IT Support, Team Leaders
   - 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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