Microsoft can automatically install the new Outlook on PCs running Windows 11 23H2

Back in May 2022, Microsoft began testing a new, redesigned and improved version of Outlook with the idea of ​​unifying the Outlook app across all platforms for a seamless experience. Optimal circuit for users. That's why even though Microsoft named this project "Monarch", it is still commonly known as "One Outlook".

In April this year, Microsoft began releasing a new Outlook preview for Insider users on the Current channel. The "Try the New Outlook for Windows" toggle remains, meaning users still have the choice of whether they want to try the improved version of Outlook, or want to continue using the Windows 32 version of Outlook. -bit.

However, with the latest Windows 11 build on the Beta channel, Microsoft has now also begun pushing the new Outlook to a larger number of Windows Insider users. A tech blogger with the nickname PhantomOcean3 recently noticed that Beta channel build 22631.2338 (KB5030305) automatically installed the new version of Outlook on his PC after a reboot:

This blogger then conducted a poll on his personal Twitter and found that some people also experienced the same phenomenon as him.

Responding to PhantomOcean3's questions, Windows Insider program manager Brandon LeBlanc confirmed that Microsoft is testing automatic installation of the Windows 11 23H2 feature update with a certain group of users. This follows a recent report suggesting that Microsoft 365 users will be automatically migrated to the new Outlook app starting August 2023.

Microsoft has confirmed that Windows 11 version 23H2 will launch in the fourth quarter of this year, and as it is now nearing the end of support for version 21H2, the company is considering forcing PCs running the older version to Update to a newer version, at least Windows 11 22H2.

The new Outlook for Windows app is based on the Outlook.com web app, with a significantly overhauled design compared to the old Outlook app, along with the ability to integrate with other Microsoft 365 services. has also been significantly improved.

Currently, there is no official timeline on when the new Outlook will replace the current Outlook application on Windows. This process could take several more years, or it is not ruled out that Microsoft may just maintain two versions of Outlook in parallel for the foreseeable future — similar to how Adobe updates Lightroom Classic alongside the new Lightroom application.

Kareem Winters

Update 17 September 2023