Yes, the older Windows Mail and Calendar apps have been replaced by the new Outlook for Windows, with support ending December 31, 2024, making the new Outlook the default for Windows 11 users and migrating most users automatically. This new version offers a more unified experience, integrating email, calendar, and contacts, and supports personal (Outlook.com, Gmail) and work/school accounts, though classic Outlook remains available for Microsoft 365 subscribers for now.
Starting January 2025 and over the following months, if you are a classic Outlook user on the Current Channel with a Business plan, you will automatically be switched to the new Outlook after receiving a series of in-app notifications.
The New Outlook does have some advantages. It is faster and lighter than classic but lacks so many features that I don't see how it can ever replace the classic Outlook. More that light users might prefer the new, and advanced users will prefer the Classic.
The new Outlook offers a more minimal and modern UI. You'll find larger icons, more whitespace and simplified folders. In contrast, the old Outlook has a more traditional look, which some users find comforting and easier to navigate.
You can go back to classic Outlook for Windows by selecting the toggle in the new Outlook for Windows app. When you click on the toggle in the new Outlook for Windows, you will see two options. Switch back to classic Outlook – this will toggle you back to classic Outlook after requesting feedback.
Q1–Q2 2028 – Official Retirement: Outlook Classic will be officially retired and removed from Microsoft 365 apps for enterprise subscriptions and individual download options. Q2 2029 – End of Life (EOL): All support for Outlook Classic ends, including updates, bug fixes, and security patches.
Alternatively, you can follow these instructions instead: Open Outlook. Click the Help menu. Click the Revert to Legacy Outlook option.
This new Outlook for Windows includes various AI-powered tools, such as meeting insights, category suggestions, and integration with other Microsoft 365 apps. It runs faster and smoother than the previous or old versions of Outlook for Windows.
If your accounts are supported in the new Outlook for Windows, you'll see a toggle in the upper right of classic Outlook to Try the new Outlook. Selecting this toggle will download the new app and let you switch to the preview.
The non-subscription based versions of Microsoft Office 2021/2024 also include the classic version the Microsoft Outlook app, and it requires a one-time purchase if you want to use it. Outlook 2021/2024 can also be sold as a standalone product, but requires a one-time purchase as well.
Below, you will see some of the most common issues that users run into, and what the most efficient way to troubleshoot Outlook is.
Microsoft's "new Outlook" (introduced in 2022) has been promoted as an upgrade, but its implementation introduces severe data protection concerns - so severe that it's fair to say it's a downgrade rather than an upgrade.
If you don't install updates, your computer will be more vulnerable to security threats. It may also miss out on bug fixes and performance improvements, leading to potential stability and compatibility issues.
Old email accounts don't usually get deleted automatically, even if you don't use them for a long time. Most email providers, like Outlook, have an inactivity period (often around 1-2 years) before they consider deleting an account.
Corrupted Outlook data files: Having damaged PST or OST files may cause instability and crash the application prematurely. This could cause Outlook to crash while opening. Add-ins Conflicts: Add-ins are small software-like features within the Outlook application.
The New Outlook (sometimes referred to as “Outlook for Windows,” though it is also available on Mac) is Microsoft's modern, streamlined version of the application. It has a simplified design that matches Outlook on the web and focuses on speed, better Office 365 integration, and security.
Configure through Microsoft 365 Apps admin center:
Outlook email and calendar is now included for free with Windows. Enjoy a best-in-class experience with intelligent tools to help you stay on top of your day, your way.
The new Outlook isn't just a redesign—it's a smarter, more secure, and more connected experience. If you're looking for a way to improve efficiency, integrate seamlessly with Microsoft 365, and take advantage of AI-powered tools, this is the upgrade you've been waiting for.
From classic Outlook, select the toggle to Try the new Outlook. From new Outlook, select the toggle to switch back to classic Outlook, new Outlook will close, and a feedback window appears.
To find out whether your Outlook for Windows is the new or classic version, look for the Settings in the top right corner. If you have the Settings button, you have the new Outlook. If the Settings button is missing, you're using classic Outlook.
Some organizations or Microsoft accounts may have disabled the ability to revert to classic Outlook. If you don't see the toggle or are unable to switch back, your organization or Microsoft may have made the new Outlook permanent on your account. For further assistance, contact your IT helpdesk.
How to Switch from New Outlook to Classic Outlook
Turning off New Outlook
Launch classic Outlook for Windows from the Windows Start Menu, not the new Outlook (identified by the "New" tag), then just close it.