Microsoft is working on a completely new Outlook email application, based on the web-based Outlook.com. The app has been available for testing for almost a year for those in the Office Insider program, but it will soon be available for everyone to try. The app also offers new personalisation features, taking inspiration from the now abandoned Windows 10 Mail app.
An update to the Microsoft 365 Roadmap reveals that the new Outlook for Windows will be available to anyone who toggles the "New Outlook" switch in the top right-hand corner of the app, starting in April 2023. This indicates that Microsoft wants to get feedback from a wider audience in preparation for the full release.
The new Outlook Windows application includes several new features and functions. One of them is that the application will be able to display a wallpaper on the reading pane when no e-mail is selected. It will also add a small color to the inbox and allow users to express themselves. The feature is expected to be released in June 2023 and can be turned on in the settings. This is similar to the feature already available in the Windows 10 Mail app, which offers a colour picker and built-in or custom wallpaper. When an email is opened, the background image will disappear from the reading pane so that the user can focus on the message.
The new Outlook initially lacked important features - such as offline support, IMAP and POP - but Microsoft is steadily adding these. The application is like a hybrid between Outlook's web and desktop applications, with a more modern design and some new features. These include a calendar table view in dark mode, which makes calendar entries more transparent.
The new Outlook application is designed to replace both Windows Mail and the old Outlook client, so it is understandable that Microsoft is moving some functionality from the Mail application. No information yet on whether the new Outlook will be available on Mac. Microsoft redesigned the Mac app in 2019, and switching from a well-designed native app to a web-based interface can be a disadvantage.
Hartung Ariel
https://lnk.bio/ariel.hartung Ariel Hartung is the founder of SoftDirect and 101 Grid. SoftDirect is a used software trading company that provides affordable and sustainable solutions for businesses and individuals. 101 Grid is an innovative electric car charging operator that develops sustainable and automated charging systems. Artificial intelligence plays a major role in both companies, helping to optimise processes and improve the customer experience. In his blog, Ariel wants to share some thoughts and experiences on used and recycled software and inspire others to dare to dream and create.
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