Still Using Windows Mail and Calendar Apps Instead of New Outlook? Here’s How to Switch Back
Last year, Microsoft announced its intentions to phase out the beloved Windows Mail and Calendar apps on Windows 10 and Windows 11, urging users to transition to other applications by the end of 2024. However, recent changes have made it seemingly difficult to keep using these traditional apps. Here’s everything you need to know about how to switch back, and what to expect in the near future.
The New Reality for Mail and Calendar Users
According to a recent report by Windows Latest, Microsoft has subtly altered the process to revert to the soon-to-be-discontinued Mail and Calendar apps. The tech company is moving towards replacing these older apps with a new web-based version of Outlook.
To add to the challenge, Microsoft has confirmed that the Mail and Calendar apps no longer remember user preferences. This means that if you close the app, it will automatically default to the new Outlook the next time you launch it.
How to Switch Back
For users who still want to revert to the old Mail and Calendar apps, Microsoft hasn’t made it impossible. The toggle to switch back can now be found in a different location within your device settings:
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to General.
- Select About.
- From here, you can find the option to turn off the new Outlook and switch back to the older Mail and Calendar apps.
It’s important to note that even when you turn off the new Outlook toggle, you may encounter a new pop-up message informing you that your preference could be reversed at any time. This indicates that the changes are rolling out in phases, as Microsoft gradually prompts users to embrace the new web-based Outlook.
What’s Next?
While it’s clear that the older Mail and Calendar apps won’t be around forever, Microsoft has confirmed that the transition is being carried out in phases. The initial rollout began earlier this year, with subsequent phases expected to follow by the third quarter of the year.
As of now, Microsoft hasn’t disclosed a specific date on which the Mail and Calendar apps will completely cease to function. However, they have assured users that more details regarding the end-of-support dates will be shared in line with their Modern Policy for product lifecycles.
What Are Your Alternatives?
For those who aren’t fond of the new Outlook, Microsoft recommends trying out different applications to manage your emails and calendars. Some popular alternatives include:
- Thunderbird: A free and open-source email client that’s highly customizable.
- Google Calendar: A robust option for scheduling and planning events, integrated with your Google account.
- eM Client: A comprehensive app offering both email and calendar functionalities in a user-friendly interface.
Conclusion
Switching back to the traditional Mail and Calendar apps might be a tad more complicated now, but it’s still doable—at least for the time being. As Microsoft continues its phased transition, it’s advisable to get comfortable with the new Outlook app or explore other alternatives to ensure a smooth shift when the time comes.
Stay tuned for further updates as Microsoft reveals more details about the final phase-out dates and other relevant information.
also read:Satya Nadellas Impact: Revolutionizing Microsofts Cloud and Software Strategy