In a significant shift within its software ecosystem, Microsoft has announced that the new Outlook for Windows will gradually replace the Mail and Calendar applications. This transition, which has already begun, has sparked mixed reactions among users, particularly those who have grown fond of the traditional Mail and Calendar interface. The new Outlook app is designed to streamline user experience, but many loyalists are left seeking ways to retain their preferred tools.
Your Windows 11 PC can easily get rid of the new Outlook
As the new Outlook becomes the default email client, users are discovering methods to revert to the familiar Mail and Calendar app. A Reddit user, u/Commercial_Use6316, shared a straightforward workaround that has garnered attention. By following a few simple steps, users can effectively sidestep the new Outlook’s imposition:
- Open the Settings app on your PC by pressing the Win key + I.
- Navigate to Apps and select Installed apps.
- Locate the new Outlook in the list and uninstall it.
- Access the Microsoft Store, search for the Outlook for Windows app, click Install, then immediately halt the installation and close the Store.
While this method has shown promise, users may need to reboot their systems for the changes to take effect fully. Testing has indicated that a restart can be crucial for restoring access to the Mail and Calendar app.
It’ll not work forever
Though this workaround provides a temporary solution, it is important to note that it may not be a permanent fix. Microsoft is actively working to unify its email applications under the “One Outlook” strategy, which aims to eliminate the existence of multiple versions of Outlook across platforms. As such, it is likely that this loophole will be addressed in future updates, leaving users to adapt to the new Outlook in due course.
As the landscape of email applications evolves, users will need to stay informed about changes and potential workarounds to maintain their preferred workflows. The transition to the new Outlook may be a sign of the times, but the desire for familiar tools remains strong among dedicated users.
