MC1129129 – (Updated) Outlook: Create and save email templates in the new Outlook for Windows (archived)

Product:

Exchange, Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook, Windows

Platform:

Online, US Instances, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

485757

Details:

Summary:
The new Outlook for Windows and Outlook for the Web will support creating, saving, and reusing email templates, including importing .oft files. Rollout begins September 2025, with templates accessible across devices and enabled by default, requiring no admin setup. Users can manage templates from the compose window and settings.

Details:
Updated October 23, 2025: We have updated the timeline for Gov clouds. Thank you for your patience.
The new Outlook for Windows and Outlook for the Web now support email templates, enabling users to create, save, and reuse templates for faster, more consistent communication. This update also supports importing existing templates saved as .oft files, streamlining the transition from classic Outlook experiences.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID: 485757
When this will happen:
Targeted Release (Worldwide): Rollout will begin in early September 2025 (previously late August) and is expected to complete by mid-September 2025 (previously early September).
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout will begin in mid-October 2025 (previously early October) and is expected to complete by early November 2025 (previously late November).
General Availability (GCC, GCC High, DoD): Rollout will begin in mid-November 2025 (previously early November) and is expected to complete by mid-December 2025 (previously early December).

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-08-05

updated:
2025-10-24

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 Experience with Email Templates
Users may experience confusion or frustration if they are not aware of the new email template feature, leading to inefficient communication and potential delays in response times.
   - roles: End Users, Customer Support Representatives
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=485757

Transition from Classic Outlook
Without preparation, users may struggle to transition from classic Outlook experiences to the new template functionality, resulting in lost productivity and errors in email communication.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?rtc=1%26filters%3D&searchterms=485757

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

The new update for Outlook, both on Windows and the web, introduces a handy feature: email templates. Think of email templates like pre-written letters that you can use over and over again. Imagine you frequently send out the same type of email, like a meeting reminder or a project update. Instead of typing it out each time, you can now save a version of this email as a template. The next time you need to send it, you just pull up the template, make any necessary tweaks, and send it off. It's like having a reusable form letter in your digital toolbox.

This feature is especially useful for maintaining consistency in communication. Just like how a law firm might use standard contracts to ensure all the necessary legal language is included, email templates ensure that important information is consistently communicated. You can even import your old templates, so if you have been using them in the past, you won't lose any of your work.

The templates are stored in your Outlook account, which means you can access them from any device where you use Outlook. It's similar to having your favorite pen and notepad with you, no matter where you go. And the best part? This feature is automatically available, so there's no need for any setup or configuration on your part. Just start using it when it becomes available in your Outlook.

There's no need to prepare for this change, but it might be helpful to let your team know about this new feature. That way, they can start thinking about which emails they send frequently and might want to turn into templates. This update is rolling out in stages, so keep an eye out for when it becomes available to you.