Classic and New Outlook

Microsoft is currently developing a "New" version of the Outlook program.

While it is not currently mandatory, it is available for preview if you would like to try it out.

Microsoft states that New Outlook is continuously being developed and new features are being added on an ongoing basis. This document will be updated as changes are made by Microsoft.

Enable "New" Outlook

1. To turn it on, open your "Classic" Outlook desktop program.
   
2. In the upper right corner there will be a toggle to "Try the New Outlook".
   
3. Change this toggle to "On".
   
1. The program will restart and you will be using the "New" version.
   

Revert to "Classic" Outlook

1. If you switch to the new version and find that you would prefer the Classic, you can switch back the same way.
   
2. The toggle to switch back is also in the upper right corner.
   
3. Change the position of this toggle and the program will restart using the "Classic" version.
   

Classic vs. New

Known issues with "New" Outlook as of January 2025

We have had a number of users attempt to switch to New Outlook, only to switch back to the Classic version as the new version is currently missing a number of items or features that are interfering with their ability to work.

If you need any of the below, please continue to use the Classic version. 

- Can not view "other" calendars shared by people but can see their main calendar.

- .PST files cannot be opened.

- While you can create your own private distribution lists, they do not show up if you type the list name in the "to" field of your email.

- Sorting options within a folder are extremely limited. You cannot sort by sender, for instance.

- Client-side rules no longer work but often have an alternative way of running them.

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