The new Outlook will be forced onto Windows 10 PCs next month, and there is no way to block it

Microsoft plans to release an update that automatically installs the latest version of Outlook on Windows 10 computers. This move may attract some negative feedback, but users won’t be able to prevent the application from being installed. If needed, Microsoft provides instructions for uninstalling the new Outlook after it has been installed.

In just a few weeks, the updated Outlook application will be installed on your Windows 10 computer without further action required from you. This update is scheduled to arrive automatically with an optional release of Windows 10, which is set for January 28, 2025. The new version of Outlook will then be distributed to all Windows 10 devices as part of the monthly security updates to the Windows 10 operating system, which are expected to be released on February 11, 2025.

This current update won’t swap out the traditional Outlook version on computers with the new Outlook. For now, users can utilize both the new and classic versions simultaneously. However, it’s important to note that Microsoft intends to phase out the classic Outlook in the future, but that change will occur at a later time.

However, it’s important to note that the latest version of Outlook isn’t just competing with the traditional Outlook; it also takes on the role previously held by the Mail & Calendar app. While some users find the new Outlook promising, others express concerns about its performance in this area.

Here’s my take on it in a more conversational tone:

“I’m diving into the comparison between the fresh Outlook and the Mail & Calendar setup shortly. But let me share with you first, this exciting update that just landed via the M365 Message Center. This message, beautifully preserved by MWorkspacePro, has been slightly reformatted for better readability:

[Message begins]

Dear Microsoft 365 Admin,

We’re excited to announce some updates coming soon to your Outlook experience!

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

1. New Outlook on the web (desktop): A reimagined design that brings more personalization options and streamlined navigation. This updated version will be available for all admins in early October.

2. New Outlook for Windows (desktop): An entirely new application with a modern design, improved performance, and enhanced security features. This update is currently being rolled out to targeted release users and will be generally available by the end of 2021.

3. New Outlook for Mac: A refreshed look and feel, along with improved calendar performance, coming soon to your Mac devices. We’ll share more details as we get closer to launch.

We believe these updates will significantly enhance your productivity and collaboration experience within Microsoft 365. Stay tuned for more information as we approach the release dates!

[Message ends]”

M65 Message Center about Outlook

Message ID: MC976059

As a tech enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the latest version of Outlook for Windows will be seamlessly integrated onto my Windows 10 device during the next scheduled monthly security update!

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.

How this affects your organization:

The new version of Outlook is available as a standalone application on your device. You can locate it in the Apps area of your Start Menu. This newer version doesn’t overwrite or modify the existing (classic) Outlook, nor does it affect any settings or user preferences. Both the classic Outlook and the new Outlook for Windows can function simultaneously.

What you can do to prepare:

Prevent automatic Outlook setup on Windows systems.

New Outlook criticisms

The latest version of Outlook supersedes the long-standing Mail & Calendar app within the built-in system of Windows, a tradition dating back to Windows 10. The Mail & Calendar app, on the other hand, is an indigenous application that boasts a lightweight design and seamlessly integrates with both Windows 11 and Windows 10. However, it’s important to note that the new Outlook functions as a web application.

The revised Outlook operates smoothly, generally speaking. However, it should be noted that it’s not an indigenous application. Compared to Mail & Calendar, it lacks certain features and does not possess the appearance of a typical Windows app since it is not one. Our Senior Editor, Zac Bowden, expressed his dislike for the new Outlook last year.

In my opinion, the latest version of Outlook for Windows falls short compared to other email clients available on various operating systems. I find Samsung Email, Gmail, and Apple Mail to be superior. The reason is that these applications are developed using native user interface frameworks, which allows them to seamlessly blend with the operating systems they’re designed for.

It’s regrettable that the latest version of Outlook is being imposed on computers, despite the fact that Microsoft has had a superior app available for quite some time.

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2025-01-10 22:39