Microsoft has a very large number of Outlook applications. There's classic Outlook (Win32), then there's Mail and Calendar (UWP and Modern), and now we have the new Outlook, a web-based email client. Microsoft wants to replace all current Outlook clients with the web app, but when that is done are you ready for the end of Outlook on your PC?
attention! Get ready for the end of Outlook on your computer!
The new Outlook for Windows is in the “preview” phase 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 “Subscription” 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 described on WindowsLatest.com, is divided into the following stages: opt-in, general availability, opt-out, and tear-off (forced migration). Right now, no one has been forced to switch just yet, with both options available to everyone, but that may change soon.
As Microsoft approaches the “general availability” phase, the new Outlook subscription will eventually be opted 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 app on Windows. It does not apply to existing customers who will remain in the Classic experience until the “redeem” phase.
What about dates?
Microsoft revealed to WindowsLatest that it will not force people to change at this time. Pay attention now. As for more specific dates, it is already known that Outlook on your computer will end but that support will only stop in 2029.
However, the transition phase begins in 2025.
Before then, classic Outlook will no longer receive new features as the focus shifts to the new Outlook.
Stages of migration
Withdraw: At some point, the user may choose to stop using the new Outlook if they don't like it. But again, Microsoft will give everyone 12 months' notice before they have to change for good.
Pieces: 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 back. But even at this point, Microsoft will give 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 working on improving things in Outlook Web. But it's just that people don't like the new version. Actually, hate is the right word.
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