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Overview
This article provides a detailed timeline for the migration to the New Outlook for Mac and Windows. The rollout follows three stages:
- Opt-in – New Outlook is available to switch to but is not the default.
- Opt-out – New Outlook becomes the default, with the option to switch back to Classic Outlook.
- Cutover – The toggle to Classic Outlook is removed, and Classic Outlook is no longer available.
Unmanaged Devices
Note: Unmanaged Devices are personally owned computers using a UO EDU account that receive Microsoft’s standard rollout schedule with no IT deferral.
New Outlook for Mac
Stage 1: Opt-in
The New Outlook for Mac entered the opt-in stage in late 2020. Microsoft announced on September 22, 2020, that the New Outlook would be available to Current Channel users starting in version 16.42.
Stage 2: Opt-out
Beginning in August 2025, New Outlook will become the default option for Mac users. The toggle to Classic Outlook will remain available during this period.
Stage 3: Cutover
Starting in mid-October 2025, New Outlook will move to the cutover stage. The toggle to Classic Outlook will be retired, and users will no longer be able to switch back once version 16.102 is pushed out.
New Outlook for Windows
Stage 1: Opt-in
On August 1, 2024, Microsoft released the New Outlook for Windows, starting the opt-in stage. Users can move to the New Outlook by using the toggle switch.
Stage 2: Opt-out
In January 2026, EDU licenses will begin moving into the opt-out stage. New Outlook will become the default, while users will retain the ability to switch back to Classic Outlook through Outlook Options > General.
Stage 3: Cutover
The cutover timeline for Windows has not yet been announced. Microsoft has stated that IT administrators will receive at least 12 months’ notice before the cutover occurs.
Note: Existing installations of Classic Outlook through perpetual licensing will continue to be supported until at least 2029.
Managed Devices
Note: Managed Devices are university-owned computers that are enrolled in IT management where updates can be deferred or controlled by campus IT.
The rollout process is the same for both managed and unmanaged devices, across macOS and Windows platforms. All university and personal computers automatically receive Microsoft 365 app updates through the Monthly Enterprise Channel.
Should this policy change and our organization is able to defer New Outlook updates, details will be communicated and posted here.
New Outlook Features
The New Outlook is built on Microsoft’s modern sync technology and offers:
- Improved performance and reliability
- Enhanced support for modern collaboration features
- A consistent cross-platform experience
Key enterprise capabilities include:
- On-premises support
- Online Archive
- Shared Mailboxes and Calendars
- Delegation
Features not yet available in New Outlook include:
- AppleScript (macOS)
- Import/Export
- Public Folders
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