MC1163756 – Outlook for Android will require Android 10.0 or higher starting January 2026

Product:

Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook

Platform:

Android, mobile, Online, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

User impact, Retirement

Links:

Details:

Summary:
Starting January 5, 2026, Outlook for Android will require Android 10.0 or higher. Devices running Android 9.x or below will no longer receive updates or new features, though existing installations may work temporarily. Organizations should identify affected users and encourage OS upgrades.

Details:
[Introduction]
To maintain app performance, security, and compatibility across devices, Outlook for Android will no longer support Android 9.x or earlier versions starting January 2026. This change aligns with Microsoft's regular operating system (OS) support evaluations and reflects architectural differences in older Android versions.
[When this will happen:]
This change will take effect on January 5, 2026.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-10-02

updated:
2025-10-02

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**

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Direct effects for Operations**

App Compatibility
Users on Android 9.x or below will not be able to install updates for Outlook for Android, leading to potential app failures and incompatibility with new features.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/outlook-blog/outlook-for-android-will-require-android-10-0-or-higher-starting/ba-p/3731230

Security Risks
Devices running outdated Android versions will not receive security updates, increasing vulnerability to security threats and data breaches.
   - roles: End Users, Security Officers
   - references: https://www.csoonline.com/article/3531230/why-you-should-update-your-android-device.html

User Experience Degradation
Users may experience degraded performance and lack of new features, leading to frustration and decreased productivity.
   - roles: End Users, Team Leaders
   - references: https://www.zdnet.com/article/why-you-should-update-your-android-device/

Increased Support Requests
IT support may face an increase in requests from users unable to access Outlook due to outdated OS, straining resources.
   - roles: IT Support, Helpdesk Staff
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/06/14/the-importance-of-it-support-in-the-modern-workplace/?sh=5c1b1c1e4c3e

Device Upgrade Costs
Organizations may incur costs related to upgrading devices for users who cannot update their OS, impacting budget planning.
   - roles: Finance Officers, IT Managers
   - references: https://www.gartner.com/en/information-technology/insights/it-budgeting

Configutation Options**

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Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine your smartphone as a car. Just like a car needs regular maintenance and sometimes new parts to keep running smoothly and safely, your phone's apps need updates to function well and stay secure. Microsoft has announced that starting January 2026, the Outlook app for Android will require your phone to be running Android 10.0 or higher. If your phone is still using Android 9.x or below, it's like trying to fit a new engine part into an older car model—it might not work as expected.

For those using older Android versions, the Outlook app will stop receiving updates. This means no new features, bug fixes, or security patches will be available. While the app might still run for a while, it's like driving an old car without access to new safety features or improvements. Eventually, it may not run at all.

To ensure everyone can continue using Outlook smoothly, it's important to check which devices in your organization are still on Android 9.x or below. Think of it as a fleet check-up, where you identify which cars need an upgrade to meet new safety standards. Communicate with those affected, encouraging them to update their phone's operating system. This way, they can continue to enjoy all the benefits of a fully supported Outlook app.

Updating internal documentation and helpdesk guidance is like updating the user manual and service protocols for your fleet. It ensures everyone knows the new requirements and can assist users effectively. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth transition and keep your organization's communication running efficiently.