Microsoft is set to significantly enhance Outlook for Windows with a suite of new features aimed at improving user experience and functionality. This move comes in response to user feedback and the upcoming discontinuation of the Mail, Calendar, and People apps.
In 2023, Microsoft announced that its longstanding Mail, Calendar, and People apps would be phased out in favor of consolidating these functions into a single Outlook application. While these apps remain available for download from the Microsoft Store, they will be retired on December 31, 2024. After this date, Outlook for Windows will become the sole option for managing emails, calendars, and contacts on the platform.
Major Enhancements on the Horizon
Windows Latest reports that Outlook for Windows will soon undergo a major update, introducing approximately 30 new features. Key among these updates is the long-awaited support for PST files, allowing users to easily access archived emails previously stored in this format. This feature aims to address one of the major pain points users have experienced with the transition to Outlook.
Additionally, the update will offer enhanced control over email retention, enabling users to manage their inboxes more effectively by setting custom retention policies. Another significant addition is the ability to pin frequently used folders to the top of the app, facilitating quicker access to important content.
AI-Powered Features for Enhanced Productivity
Microsoft is also introducing AI-driven tools to further modernize the Outlook experience. Among these, the Copilot feature will be a standout, assisting users with drafting emails, suggesting improvements, and even rewriting sections of messages. This tool is designed to enhance clarity and effectiveness in email communication, particularly for important or sensitive correspondence.
These advancements reflect Microsoft’s commitment to refining the Outlook app, making it a more versatile and user-friendly tool. For a complete list of the upcoming features, users are encouraged to visit the official Microsoft 365 website.
Preparing for the Transition
With the deadline for the legacy apps approaching, users are advised to familiarize themselves with the new features of Outlook. Although the transition may initially seem challenging, the new functionalities promise to streamline email, calendar, and contact management, potentially transforming how users interact with their communication tools.
Microsoft’s updates aim to address user concerns and position Outlook for Windows as a comprehensive solution for all communication needs. As these features roll out, users can anticipate a more robust and efficient email experience in the years ahead.
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