The new version of Outlook is now available for free, without requiring a Microsoft 365 subscription or Office license. The new features are being constantly developed and added. The intention is not to replace the classic Outlook from the Office package in the near future. However, the new version aims to replace the UWP apps Contacts, Mail, and Calendar in Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Several features are still missing in the new version, and some operations are not as efficient as those in the desktop Outlook. However, updates are expected to address these issues in the coming months. Additionally, there have been discussions about data protection due to the syncing of all email accounts with Microsoft servers.
The new Outlook will merge the email, calendar, and contacts functions in Windows 10/11. It is based on WebView2 and may be automatically installed on new Windows 11 devices from 2024. The UWP apps Contacts, Calendar, and Mail have not yet been removed, but the new Outlook app can be downloaded from the Microsoft App Store.
Setting up the new Outlook is relatively straightforward, with the option to connect multiple types of email accounts. The interface is simpler and more user-friendly compared to the desktop version of Outlook. Users can customize accounts, calendars, and contacts based on their preferences.
The new Outlook also has the ability to manage different email accounts and integrates with Office apps for web-based applications. Customization options are available for the ribbon view, providing access to various commands for folders and calendars. Overall, the new Outlook offers a centralized interface for managing emails, calendars, and contacts, but it’s important to consider the data protection implications.
