check before: 2025-05-15
Product:
Exchange, Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook
Platform:
Online, US Instances, World tenant
Status:
Change type:
Feature update, User impact
Links:
Details:
Summary:
Microsoft will update the behavior for switching between new and classic Outlook for Windows. Starting mid-May 2025, new Outlook will stay minimized when switching back to classic Outlook. From early June 2025, users can open classic Outlook without leaving new Outlook. This change requires no admin action and will be automatic.
Details:
Coming soon: We will change how users switch back from new Microsoft Outlook to classic Outlook for Windows to make it easier for users to simultaneously use classic Outlook and new Outlook.
[When this will happen:]
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC): We will begin rolling out the default behavior to keep new Outlook minimized after a user switches out of new Outlook in mid-May 2025 and expect to complete by late May 2025.
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC): We will begin rolling out an option to open classic Outlook without switching out of new Outlook in early June 2025 and expect to complete by late July 2025.
Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
Created:
2025-05-02
updated:
2025-05-02
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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MS workload name
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summary for non-techies**
Starting in mid-2025, Microsoft Outlook for Windows will allow users to switch between the new and classic versions without closing either, minimizing disruptions and pausing notifications from the inactive version, with automatic rollout and no IT action required.
Direct effects for Operations**
User Experience Disruption
Users may experience confusion when switching between new and classic Outlook due to minimized behavior of new Outlook, potentially leading to missed notifications and reminders.
- roles: End Users, IT Support
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/switch-to-new-outlook-for-windows-f5fb9e26-af7c-4976-9274-61c6428344e7
Increased Support Requests
The change in behavior may lead to an increase in support requests as users adapt to the new switching mechanism, impacting IT support workload.
- roles: IT Support, Helpdesk Staff
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/switch-to-new-outlook-for-windows-f5fb9e26-af7c-4976-9274-61c6428344e7
Training and Documentation Needs
Organizations may need to update training materials and documentation to reflect the new behavior, which could lead to temporary gaps in user knowledge.
- roles: Training Coordinators, End Users
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/switch-to-new-outlook-for-windows-f5fb9e26-af7c-4976-9274-61c6428344e7
Configutation Options**
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Opportunities**
Improved User Experience with Dual Outlook Usage
The ability to open classic Outlook without leaving new Outlook allows users to access both interfaces simultaneously, improving productivity and user satisfaction. This change is particularly beneficial for roles that require frequent switching between different Outlook versions, such as administrative staff and project managers.
- next-steps: Communicate the new functionality to users through training sessions and documentation updates. Gather user feedback to assess the impact of the change on their workflow.
- roles: Administrative Staff, Project Managers, Sales Representatives
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/switch-to-new-outlook-for-windows-f5fb9e26-af7c-4976-9274-61c6428344e7
Streamlined Notification Management
With the new feature, classic Outlook notifications will be prioritized when users switch back, reducing distractions from new Outlook notifications. This can enhance focus for roles that manage multiple tasks or communications, such as customer service representatives and team leaders.
- next-steps: Create guidelines on managing notifications effectively and provide training on how to leverage this feature for better time management.
- roles: Customer Service Representatives, Team Leaders, Marketing Coordinators
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/switch-to-new-outlook-for-windows-f5fb9e26-af7c-4976-9274-61c6428344e7
Reduced IT Support Queries
As users will have a more seamless experience switching between the two versions of Outlook, there may be a reduction in support queries related to user confusion or issues with switching back. This can lead to lower operational costs for the IT department.
- next-steps: Monitor support ticket trends post-implementation to quantify the reduction in queries. Use this data to evaluate the effectiveness of the new feature and identify any further training needs.
- roles: IT Support Staff, Helpdesk Technicians, IT Managers
- references: https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/switch-to-new-outlook-for-windows-f5fb9e26-af7c-4976-9274-61c6428344e7
Potentional Risks**
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IT Security**
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explanation for non-techies**
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** AI generated content. This information must be reviewed before use.
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Last updated 1 week ago
