Microsoft reminds us of the end of the classic Outlook for Mac

Microsoft is currently reminding users in the Microsoft365 Message Center that classic Outlook on macOS will soon be largely history. First of all, the admin template with which you can set the switch to return to classic Outlook in the "new Outlook" web app is being removed.

Briefly, Microsoft writes in a message (MC1098932, access authorization required) that the manufacturer intends to retire the admin setting for returning to classic Outlook in Outlook for Macs from mid-August. Microsoft will also make the "new Outlook" the default in the current Microsoft365 channel, and the option to switch back to the classic client will be completely removed in mid-October 2025.

Microsoft's more detailed plan

From mid-August, the new Outlook for Mac is to become the standard in the current Microsoft 365 channel, i.e. from version 16.100 or later. The admin setting "EnableNewOutlook", which configures the default setting for the switch between the new and classic Outlook client, will no longer apply. Outlook users will no longer be able to switch to the classic client from build 16.102 in mid-October.

Microsoft also discusses the roadmap for Outlook on Mac desktops on a separate website. Anyone using a Microsoft 365 subscription will no longer be able to use classic Outlook from October 2025 at the latest. Classic Outlook for Mac without a subscription will also lose support if users have purchased it as a standalone version Outlook for Mac 2024, as an Outlook app from Office Home and Business 2024 or newer or as an Outlook app from the Apple App Store. Microsoft intends to support the classic Outlook from Office LTSC 2024 until October 9, 2029.

At the end of last year, Microsoft announced that customers with Microsoft365 Enterprise licenses would also switch to the "new Outlook" client. This is due to happen from April 2026. However, admins have the option of returning to the classic client.

(dmk)