The tech industry is obsessed with AI. The applications are increasingly becoming AI-oriented, and their integration is quite obvious. Newer email applications will offer AI features like assistance in email writing, grammatical correction, predictive text suggestions, smart categorization, automated responses, and advanced spam filtering, making email management more efficient and user-friendly.
It’s been one and a half years since Microsoft changed its Classic Outlook to the New Outlook application. The new app is not yet AI optimized, but it is expected that soon it will be equipped with the latest features. However, there are concerns with users who prefer the traditional Outlook experience due to its reliable functionality, local data storage, and user control. The classic Outlook is available, but Microsoft is gradually available. Users may have to choose the New Outlook as Microsoft plans to discontinue the old application.
Do all these changes make the new Outlook really as awful as people say? Find out the user reviews here! This post explores how you can continue using the classic Outlook application. What methods are there to keep using, and when will Microsoft plan to phase out the old version?
What is New Outlook?
New Outlook is a version of Outlook that uses the cloud. It works well with Microsoft 365 services. Classic Outlook uses local storage and allows offline access. New Outlook needs a good internet connection.
Some key differences are:
- No support for PST files: There is no support for PST files. Users cannot store emails locally like Classic Outlook users.
- More integration with Microsoft 365: This makes it harder to use without a Microsoft account.
- Simplified interface: Some people think this is an improvement. Other people think it loses advanced functions.
- Less customization: Many features for power users have been removed.
- Cloud-dependent storage: This raises worries about security and accessing data without the internet.
Microsoft says this change is an improvement. They say New Outlook gives better security, automatic updates, and smooth integration across devices. However, old users say they lose control over their emails and data. If you are an old Outlook enthusiast, find out the key differences between Old Outlook and New Outlook here!
Classic Outlook Still Exists?
Right now, Classic Outlook is still available. Microsoft has not said when they will stop it. However, Microsoft often phases out older versions. This has happened before.
Several signs show that Classic Outlook may not last forever:
- Microsoft’s history of discontinuing older software: Microsoft ends older software sometimes. This happened with Internet Explorer and Windows Live Mail.
- Aggressive promotion of New Outlook: Microsoft promotes New Outlook strongly. They push users to switch and give constant reminders.
- Limited support for future updates: Classic Outlook may get less support over time. It could receive fewer updates, which may make it less secure or less compatible with new features.
- Pressure on IT administrators: Pressure on IT administrators is high. Businesses and IT teams are encouraged to move to cloud-based solutions. New Outlook is one of these solutions.
Many users and businesses still prefer Classic Outlook. They like its offline functionality, customization, and local storage. Microsoft does not say that it will make everyone use New Outlook. However, the gradual push means that Classic Outlook’s future is uncertain.
How to Disable New Outlook?
If you want to keep using Classic Outlook, you can avoid or turn off New Outlook. Here are a few ways.
1. Turn Off New Outlook in the App
Microsoft adds a toggle switch in some Outlook versions. This switch allows users to choose between Classic and New Outlook. If you find this option, you can turn off New Outlook easily.
2. Change Registry Settings (Advanced Users)
Some users want Classic Outlook to be their default. Changing Windows Registry settings might help with this. But this method needs technical skills. You must be careful.
- First, open Registry Editor (regedit).
- Then, go to HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Office\16.0\Outlook\Options.
- After that, create a new DWORD value. Name it DisableNewOutlook.
- Set the value to 1.
- Finally, restart Outlook.
3. Group Policy Settings
Organizations that use Classic Outlook can make rules to stop the switch using Group Policy settings. IT administrators can disable New Outlook on company devices. This way, employees can keep using the classic version.
4. Uninstall New Outlook
Some New Outlook versions may be installed separately. If this happens, you can remove it. You can do this through Control Panel > Programs and Features or Windows Settings > Apps.
5. Avoid Updates
You can stop automatic updates. This can stop forced changes. Disabling updates is not safe. It can cause security problems.
These methods may not work for long. Microsoft may remove the toggle option later. They can also make New Outlook updates mandatory. This can make it harder to resist the change.
Alternative to New Outlook: DejaOffice PC CRM
If you want to avoid New Outlook, you can use DejaOffice PC CRM. This software keeps your data local. It also works without the internet. DejaOffice is different from New Outlook. It does not depend on the cloud and gives a familiar experience.
Why Choose DejaOffice PC CRM?
- Full offline access: You can access contacts, emails, and calendars without the internet.
- No forced cloud reliance: DejaOffice does not require a Microsoft 365 account. Users can manage emails and contacts alone.
- Familiar interface: People who use Classic Outlook can find DejaOffice easy to use.
- Advanced features for power users: DejaOffice helps with contact management, task organization, and calendar sync. You do not need a Microsoft account.
- Sync with multiple devices: You can sync with desktops, mobile devices, and external storage.
DejaOffice keeps your data private. Your data stays on your device. This can help avoid the risks of cloud storage. Businesses that handle sensitive data can find this reason helpful.
Conclusion
Microsoft wants everyone to use New Outlook. This shows a move to a cloud-based future, but not everyone likes this. Classic Outlook is still available now. However, the pressure to use New Outlook causes worries about forced changes and less control for users. Some people like Classic Outlook because it works offline. They can customize it as they want. These people can still turn off New Outlook or avoid it. However, these ways may not last a long time. Some users can try other options like DejaOffice PC CRM. This option can help them keep control over their emails and contact management. They do not have to depend on Microsoft’s changing rules.
Microsoft is changing Outlook now. Users must learn about the changes. They should also take steps to protect their email use. This is important before the changes cannot be reversed. You can choose to stop the change or get used to New Outlook. Knowing your choices helps you control your digital work area.