Outlook (New) will become the new default program on Windows 11. It will combine the mail, contacts and calendar all in one app, similar to the “legacy” Outlook that so many of us are used to. There are also plenty of other alternatives, some free and some that cost money. The most popular ones are Outlook (a part of Microsoft 365), Mozilla Thunderbird and EmClient.
What Is Happening to Windows Mail?
Windows Mail is the free, built-in email application that comes pre-installed with Windows 10 and Windows 11. It’s long been a convenient option for users who want basic email functionality without having to install or subscribe to additional software. However, Microsoft has made it clear that support for Windows Mail will end on December 31, 2024. After this date, the app will no longer be able to send or receive emails.
The notification inside Windows Mail now prominently warns users of this impending change, urging them to “Try the new Outlook.” This is more than a suggestion – it’s a direct push toward Microsoft’s next-generation email client.
The Transition to the New Outlook
When you click the “Try the new Outlook” button within Windows Mail, you’ll be automatically switched to the new Outlook application. It is web-based, so it will work best only if you are connected to a reliable Internet connection. Once activated, this app will replace Windows Mail as the default email client on your device. Here’s what you can expect:
- Familiar Features: The new Outlook integrates your email, calendar, and contacts into one streamlined interface, just like Windows Mail did.
- Automatic Migration: All accounts you previously configured in Windows Mail will automatically appear in the new Outlook. This makes the transition relatively seamless.
- Becomes Default: Once you enable the new Outlook, it replaces Windows Mail as your default email client. From this point onward, it’s no longer a “trial” but the permanent email application for your system.
The New Outlook vs Microsoft Office Outlook
One of the most confusing aspects of this transition is the naming overlap between the new Outlook and the well-known Microsoft Office Outlook. Microsoft likes to use the same or similar name for different products – likely to confuse everyone!
The new Outlook is free, comes preinstalled, and only has basic features. For example, you can’t even backup your emails! The “old” Outlook costs money – a one-time purchase or subscription to Microsoft 365. It has advanced professional features and frequently used by small businesses and corporations.
The Best Alternative to the New Outlook
If you find the new Outlook too limited or inconvenient, there are several of alternative email clients available. However, after years of trying all of them, we recommend sticking with EmClient. It’s free for non-commercial use, has advanced features like the legacy Outlook and is actually more reliable than Outlook itself! I can’t count the number of cases when Outlook couldn’t even connect to an email account, yet EmClient worked seamlessly. Moreover, it fully supports Gmail, with Calendar and Contacts sync.
Preparing for the Transition
If you’ve been using Windows Mail, it’s time to get ready for the transition now. With plenty of time before the deadline, now is the perfect opportunity to prepare for the change. Whatever you choose, don’t wait until the last minute to make the switch. Windows Mail is going away – embrace the change or find an alternative that works for you.
Test the new Outlook and see how you like it. If all you need is basic functionality, you might be happy with it. If you need advanced features, like multiple email accounts, accessing your emails while offline, connecting several email accounts, making rules and filters, and being able to back up your emails – EmClient will have you covered. And if you need help – don’t hesitate to contact us.
