MC976059 – New Outlook to be pre-installed on Windows 10 devices (archived)

Product:

Microsoft 365 Apps, Outlook, Windows

Platform:

Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Change type:

User impact, Admin impact

Links:

Details:

Summary:
The new Outlook will be pre-installed on Windows 10 devices with the optional January 28, 2025 release, and the February 11, 2025 security update. It will exist alongside classic Outlook without altering configurations or defaults. Preparation guidance is available for controlling the installation.

Details:
New Outlook for Windows will be automatically installed on Windows 10 devices as part of an upcoming monthly security release.
[When this will happen:]
Available as part of:
the optional Windows 10 release on January 28, 2025.
the monthly security update release for Windows 10 on February 11, 2025.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:

Created:
2025-01-10

updated:
2025-01-10

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**

User Experience Disruption
Users may experience confusion or frustration due to the presence of two versions of Outlook (classic and new) without prior training or communication, leading to potential productivity loss.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/01/25/the-future-of-work-5-ways-technology-is-changing-the-way-we-work/

Increased Support Tickets
The introduction of New Outlook may lead to an increase in support tickets as users encounter issues or have questions about the new interface and features, straining IT resources.
   - roles: IT Support, Help Desk Staff
   - references: https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-reduce-it-support-tickets/

Compatibility Issues
Potential compatibility issues may arise with existing add-ins or integrations that users rely on, leading to disruptions in workflows and user frustration.
   - roles: End Users, Application Administrators
   - references: https://www.techrepublic.com/article/how-to-avoid-software-compatibility-issues/

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

User Training and Support
With the introduction of New Outlook, there will be an opportunity to enhance user training and support resources to help employees transition smoothly from classic Outlook to New Outlook. This could include webinars, tutorials, and FAQs tailored to address common concerns and features of the new application.
   - next-steps: Develop a training program that includes resources for users to familiarize themselves with New Outlook. Schedule live sessions and create a repository of materials for ongoing reference.
   - roles: IT Support, HR, Training Coordinators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/outlook/email, https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/outlook/get-started

Feedback Mechanism Implementation
Establishing a feedback mechanism for users to report their experiences with New Outlook can lead to continuous improvement of IT services. This can help identify issues early and provide insights into user satisfaction and potential areas for further training or support.
   - next-steps: Create a structured feedback form or platform for users to submit their experiences and suggestions regarding New Outlook. Analyze feedback regularly to make informed decisions on support and training needs.
   - roles: IT Support, Product Managers, User Experience Teams
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/04/15/the-importance-of-user-feedback-in-product-development/, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2020/09/22/the-importance-of-user-feedback-in-software-development/

Integration with Other Microsoft 365 Apps
New Outlook can offer enhanced integration with other Microsoft 365 applications such as Teams, OneDrive, and SharePoint. This presents an opportunity to streamline workflows and improve productivity by promoting the use of these integrated features.
   - next-steps: Assess the current usage of Microsoft 365 apps among employees and identify key integration points with New Outlook. Develop a communication plan to promote these features and encourage adoption.
   - roles: IT Support, Operations Managers, Team Leaders
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/blog/2020/06/02/integrating-teams-and-outlook-to-improve-remote-work/, https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-365-developer-blog/integrating-microsoft-teams-and-outlook/ba-p/1455351

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

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