New Outlook adds an optional classic-style setting
Reviewed by Helen Jones
Microsoft is rolling out an optional classic-style setting for Outlook on the web and the new Outlook for Windows from August to October. It changes the visual style, layout, typography, icons, and some interactions, but does not restore classic Outlook features or move anyone to the new app.
A familiar screen can lower the friction when someone is moving from classic Outlook, especially when their everyday mail and calendar work already feels different. But a familiar-looking interface is not the same as the old application, so users can still be caught out if they expect missing features, menus, or add-ins to reappear. Most people will keep the standard new Outlook appearance unless they turn the setting on. Some users moving from classic Outlook may receive it by default, which means a sudden visual change can be a rollout effect rather than a change to their mailbox, permissions, or organisation settings.
Analysis
If your Outlook screen changes, check Settings > General > Appearance before assuming you have been moved to a different app. For any team migration guide, add one line explaining that the classic-style setting changes the look, not the available features.
Source note
Pulse published by Collab365 Spaces, reviewed by Helen Jones on . Cite as "Outlook adds a classic-style setting without bringing classic Outlook back", Collab365 Spaces.