Microsoft has too many Outlook applications. There's classic Outlook (Win32), then there's Mail and Calendar (UWP and modern), and now we have the new Outlook, which is a web-based email client. Microsoft wants to replace all existing Outlook clients with the web app But when this happens, are you prepared for the end of the Outlook you have on your PC?
Attention! Get ready for the end of the Outlook you have on your PC!
The new Outlook for Windows is in “preview” but will soon enter the “general availability” phase, which will be an important milestone in its adoption. Right now, the new Outlook is in the “opt-in” or preview phase, where you have the option to start using the web app instead of the full classic app by activating the toggle button in the top right corner.
The migration process, as mentioned on the WindowsLatest.com website, is divided into the following phases: Opt-In, General Availability, Opt-Out and Cutover (forced migration). Right now, no one is being forced to switch yet, with both options available to everyone, but that could soon change.
As Microsoft approaches the 'general availability' phase, the new Outlook will eventually opt-out.
In the self-exclusion phase, the new Outlook will be the default experience for new customers.
This opt-out phase only applies to “new customers”, those who have signed up for Outlook and downloaded the application on Windows. Does not apply to existing customers who will remain in the classic experience until the “cutover” phase.
What about dates?
Microsoft revealed to WindowsLatest that it will not force people to change for now. Pay attention to now. And as for more specific dates, it is already known that the Outlook you have on your PC will come to an end but will only stop being supported in 2029.
However, the cutover phase begins in 2025.
Before that, classic Outlook will no longer receive new features as the focus shifts to the new Outlook.
The migration phases
Opt-Out: At some point, the user may choose to stop using the new Outlook if they don't like it. But once again, Microsoft will give everyone 12 months' notice before they have to change for good.
Cutover: Eventually, Microsoft will move all users to the new Outlook, whether they like it or not. This does not mean that the old version will no longer be available, as you can always change it again. But even at this stage, Microsoft will have given users at least 12 months' notice to get used to the idea. Then it comes to an end.
Meanwhile, it's good that Microsoft is improving things in Outlook Web. It's just that people aren't loving the new version. In fact, hate is the right word.