Microsoft has put Microsoft 365 customers on notice that a forced move from Outlook (classic) to their new, very different, Outlook for Windows will start in April 2026 for a large block of customers.
Outlook (new) for Windows is a very different app from the Outlook we’ve used for years. Microsoft has released it to the public even though it lacks important features in the current Outlook.
From April 2026 Microsoft 365 Enterprise users will be “toggled” from their current Outlook to Outlook (new).
“Toggled”
“toggled” is Microsoft weasel word for their forcing new Outlook onto paying customers computers.
Another misleading term is “Switch”, chosen to give the false impression that you’re permanently leaving classic Outlook in favor of Outlook (new).
More migrations before that
Some consumer Microsoft 365 customers (Family or Personal plans) might have already seen a prompt to move from their existing Outlook.
In early 2025, Microsoft 365 Business Standard and Business Premium will be pestered to switch over to Outlook (new).
Everyone is seeing a “Try new Outlook” suggestion in their Outlook unless they stop the Try new Outlook button appearing.
Keep in mind
Important things to know about the forced move to Outlook (new).
- The forced change to new Outlook can be blocked, see How to stop migration to new Outlook
- Classic Outlook remains on the computer, even after a migration to Outlook (new).
- Both Outlook classic and new can exist and run on a computer at the same time. There’s no conflict.
- Outlook (classic) for Windows will remain supported until at least 2029.
- Change to Outlook (new) when YOU are ready, not when Microsoft tries to force you.
