In February 2025, Microsoft initiated a significant update for Windows 10 users, which included the mandatory installation of the new Outlook app. This move is part of the company’s broader strategy to integrate the new Outlook into its ecosystem. However, many users are finding this forced installation unwelcome, prompting a search for solutions to prevent it.
Preventing New Outlookâs Installation
The installation of the new Outlook app is tied to the KB5051974 update, a critical security patch addressing various system vulnerabilities. While it is essential to apply this update, users can take steps to prevent the new Outlook from being installed alongside it.
To achieve this, modifications to the Windows registry are necessary. It is crucial to approach this task with caution, as improper changes can lead to system instability. For those unfamiliar with the Windows registry, it is advisable to consult guides that outline potential risks before proceeding.
- Open the Start menu and search for
Registry Editorto launch the application. - In the Registry Editor, navigate to
HKEYLOCALMACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsUpdateOrchestratorUScheduler_Oobe. - Select
UScheduler_Oobe, then right-click in the right-hand pane and choose New > String Value. - Rename the new entry to
BlockedOobeUpdaters. - Modify the entry by setting the value data to
["MS_Outlook"]. - Close the Registry Editor.
By following these steps, users can prevent the new Outlook from being forcibly installed. However, it is important to note that this process must be repeated before each subsequent Windows 10 update, as the new Outlook is expected to accompany future patches.
Uninstalling New Outlook After the Fact
For those who have already experienced the automatic installation of the new Outlook, there remains a path to uninstall it. Unlike typical applications, the new Outlook cannot be removed through standard methods. Instead, users must utilize Windows PowerShell.
To begin, right-click the Start menu and select Terminal (Admin) to open PowerShell with administrative privileges. Enter the following command and press Enter:
Remove-AppxProvisionedPackage -AllUsers -Online -PackageName (Get-AppxPackage Microsoft.OutlookForWindows).PackageFullName
This command not only removes the new Outlook app but also prevents its reinstallation in the future. Users should exercise caution, however, as launching the Mail or Calendar apps, which are no longer supported, may trigger the installation of the new Outlook.
To uninstall these unsupported apps, the following command can be used in PowerShell:
Get-AppxProvisionedPackage -Online | Where {$.DisplayName -match "microsoft.windowscommunicationsapps"} | Remove-AppxProvisionedPackage -Online -PackageName {$.PackageName}
Does Any of This Make Sense?
While the new Outlook app represents an updated version of its predecessor, the method of its installation raises questions. The practice of enforced app installations can leave users feeling discontented, especially in light of similar issues surrounding the forced upgrade to Windows 11 24H2, which has encountered its share of problems.
Ultimately, the decision on how to respond to these developments rests with the user. For those interested in exploring the new Outlook app further, additional resources and tips are available to enhance the user experience.
