As Managing Director of enablesIT, one of my key priorities is ensuring that both our business and our clients stay ahead of Microsoft’s major product changes, especially when they impact productivity and day to day operations. One of the biggest shifts now firmly underway is the retirement of Classic Outlook for Windows and Microsoft’s push toward the New Outlook.

Microsoft has already begun phasing out the classic version, and while it won’t vanish overnight, the deadlines are clear:

• A significant push toward the New Outlook by April 2026

• End of support for Classic Outlook by 2029

We are so used to the classic version, and have a reluctance to change. I have decided to make the change, and very quickly you get used to the new interface. All businesses should start preparing now, so their teams can transition smoothly and confidently.

As your trusted IT partner, we want to ensure your teams are ready well ahead of time. Not only to avoid disruption, but to take advantage of the significant improvements the New Outlook offers:

1. A Modern, Cleaner Interface Designed for Productivity – The New Outlook offers a refreshed, streamlined layout that aligns perfectly with Outlook on the web and mobile. This consistency helps users work faster and switch between devices more seamlessly.

2. Better Cloud Integration
Built around Microsoft 365, the New Outlook enables:

  • Seamless file sharing
  • Automatic cloud syncing
  • Faster, unified search
  • Easy setup for additional accounts

This cloud integration improves collaboration and reduces device specific issues.

3. Enhanced Security and Compliance
As Classic Outlook moves toward retirement, it will naturally receive fewer functional enhancements. The New Outlook, however, delivers:

  • Microsoft’s latest security features
  • Stronger cloud based protection
  • Ongoing improvements and feature updates

For any organisation prioritising security and compliance, this makes the New Outlook the safer long term choice.

4. Faster Performance & Improved Search – With a modern search engine and more efficient performance for sending, syncing, and organising email, the New Outlook is built for speed and reliability.

5. A Better Cross Device Experience – The New Outlook shares its core with Outlook on the web, giving users a unified and consistent experience whether they are on a desktop, browser, or mobile device.

What About Plug-Ins and Add-ins?

One of the most common questions we hear is: “Will our plug ins still work in the New Outlook?”

The short answer: Some will, some won’t. It depends on how they’re built.

The New Outlook only supports web based Microsoft 365 add ins, meaning older COM add ins (the kind many businesses have used for years) may not function. Examples of tools that require review include:

  • CRM integrations
  • Email tracking tools
  • Document management add ins
  • Custom internal plug ins

Part of our Outlook Assessment includes reviewing your add ins and advising whether:

  • They will work as is
  • They require an update from the vendor
  • They need replacing with a modern, cloud based alternative

This step is essential before switching users over.

Why Start Transitioning Now?
My priority is ensuring my business and our clients stay secure, supported, and productive. Moving to the New Outlook early means:

  • Avoiding last minute disruption when Classic Outlook phases out
  • Staying aligned with Microsoft’s roadmap, which is already pushing users toward the new version
  • Allowing time for training, testing, and internal adjustments
  • Ensuring your organisation benefits from the latest features, security, and reliability improvements

My goal is to ensure our business and yours remain secure, productive, and aligned with Microsoft’s future direction.

How enablesIT Will Support You

At enablesIT our aim is to successfully guide you through this transition smoothly. Our team will:

  • Review your environment
  • Ensure mailbox compatibility and integration readiness
  • Support your staff as they adopt the new interface
  • Manage the migration with minimal downtime

Ready to Move to the New Outlook?

If you’re thinking about planning your transition or just want clarity on how these changes may impact your organisation —we’re here to help.

Get in touch with enablesIT, and we’ll make sure your Outlook experience remains secure, smooth, and fully supported for the future.