The evolution of Microsoft Outlook has introduced a new experience known as the “New Outlook,” offering a refreshed design, improved performance, and enhanced collaboration features. This blog outlines the main differences between the New Outlook and Classic Outlook, highlights key settings that have been moved, and provides step-by-step instructions to help users locate these settings.
Main Differences Between New Outlook and Classic Outlook
1. User Interface
- New Outlook: Features a more streamlined and minimalist design, with a focus on simplicity and productivity. The layout is modern, with a collapsible ribbon and a cleaner look.
- Classic Outlook: Offers a more traditional interface with a full ribbon and detailed menus. This design may feel familiar to long-time users.
2. Performance Enhancements
- New Outlook: Optimized for faster load times and smoother operation. It’s designed to integrate seamlessly with Microsoft 365 and the cloud.
- Classic Outlook: While reliable, it can feel slower compared to the newer version, especially in cloud-based environments.
3. Collaboration Features
- New Outlook: Improved integration with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive. Features like quick meeting scheduling, shared to-do lists, and real-time collaboration are front and center.
- Classic Outlook: Includes collaboration tools but lacks the depth and accessibility of the New Outlook’s integration capabilities.
4. Cross-Platform Consistency
- New Outlook: Offers a consistent experience across Windows, macOS, and web versions.
- Classic Outlook: The experience can vary significantly between platforms.
5. Advanced AI Features
- New Outlook: Includes AI-driven features like suggested replies, meeting insights, and email categorization.
- Classic Outlook: Limited or no AI features.
Key Settings That Have Moved in New Outlook
Several settings have been relocated to improve accessibility and streamline the user experience. Here are some significant changes:
1. Email Rules
- Classic Outlook: Found under “File > Manage Rules & Alerts.”
- New Outlook: Located in “Settings > View all Outlook settings > Mail > Rules.”
2. Focused Inbox
- Classic Outlook: Enabled or disabled through the “View” tab in the ribbon.
- New Outlook: Managed in “Settings > View all Outlook settings > Mail > Layout > Focused Inbox.”
3. Calendar Options
- Classic Outlook: Accessed through “File > Options > Calendar.”
- New Outlook: Found under “Settings > View all Outlook settings > Calendar.”
4. Email Signature
- Classic Outlook: Configured through “File > Options > Mail > Signatures.”
- New Outlook: Managed in “Settings > View all Outlook settings > Mail > Compose and reply.”
5. Automatic Replies
- Classic Outlook: Set up through “File > Automatic Replies.”
- New Outlook: Accessed via “Settings > View all Outlook settings > Mail > Automatic replies.”
Steps to Locate and Adjust Key Settings in New Outlook
Step 1: Open Settings
- Click the gear icon in the top-right corner of the New Outlook interface.
- Scroll down and select “View all Outlook settings.”
Step 2: Navigate to Specific Settings
- Email Rules: Go to “Mail > Rules” to create, edit, or delete rules.
- Focused Inbox: Find this under “Mail > Layout > Focused Inbox” and toggle it on or off.
- Calendar Options: Navigate to “Calendar” to customize your calendar settings.
- Email Signature: Select “Mail > Compose and reply” to set up or modify your signature.
- Automatic Replies: Go to “Mail > Automatic replies” to set out-of-office messages.
Step 3: Save Changes
After making any adjustments, click “Save” to ensure your settings are applied.
Tips for Transitioning to the New Outlook
- Explore the Interface: Spend time navigating the new layout to familiarize yourself with the streamlined design.
- Leverage AI Features: Use tools like suggested replies and meeting insights to boost productivity.
- Use the Search Bar: The enhanced search functionality makes finding emails, files, and settings quicker and easier.
- Sync Across Devices: Ensure your settings and preferences are synced for a consistent experience on all platforms.
- Check for Updates: Keep Outlook updated to benefit from the latest features and improvements.
Conclusion
The transition from Classic Outlook to New Outlook represents a significant step forward in terms of design, performance, and functionality. While there is a learning curve, the New Outlook’s intuitive features and improved integration make it a powerful tool for personal and professional use.Â
By understanding the differences and knowing where to find your favorite settings, you can make the most of this upgraded experience.