● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 neutral
Microsoft rolls out Classic Outlook theme for New Outlook users
Key points
- Classic Outlook theme rolling out to New Outlook users.
- Theme applies visual styling, layout, typography, and icons.
- Default for some users, but can be toggled off.
- Aids transition from classic to new Outlook.
- Targeted release mid-August to end of September.
Classic Theme Introduction
Microsoft has begun rolling out a Classic Outlook theme for users of Outlook on the web and the New Outlook for Windows. This theme is part of a targeted release that started in mid-August and is expected to conclude by the end of September. General availability worldwide is anticipated between late September and late October.
Visual and Interaction Changes
When enabled, the Classic Outlook theme applies coordinated changes across the Outlook experience. These changes include visual styling, layout, typography, icons, and selected interactions, according to a Microsoft 365 Message Center update. The feature will not override existing administrator configurations or automatically migrate users from classic Outlook to the new Outlook.
User Control and Default Settings
The new user interface style will be enabled by default for some users, particularly those transitioning from classic Outlook. However, users can toggle it off to switch to the standard theme via Settings > General > Appearance. For most users, the setting will be off by default, but it can be turned on or off at any time.
Purpose of the Update
This update is designed to assist users who are transitioning from classic Outlook by offering a more familiar experience while retaining the capabilities of the new Outlook. It addresses the need for a smoother migration path as Microsoft encourages adoption of the New Outlook client.
Background on New Outlook Adoption
The New Outlook, also known as Outlook for Windows, replaced Windows Mail as a pre-installed app on Windows 11 and Windows starting in October 2023 and January 2025, respectively. Microsoft introduced the first preview version in May 2022, with general availability for personal accounts in September 2023 and for commercial customers in August 2024. Microsoft previously postponed the new Outlook opt-out phase for businesses from April 2026 to March 2027 to allow more time for migration.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
The daily brief
One email each morning: the day's tech stories, clustered across outlets and summarized. No account needed.
One email a day. Unsubscribe in one click, any time.
Today's brief
Spend a few minutes, get the whole day. Every topic's top stories in one hands-free rundown — listen, watch, or read the transcript.
▶ Play today's brief
New every morning, and the back catalogue is archived by date.
Reporting from
Microsoft is rolling out a Classic Outlook theme for Outlook on the web and the New Outlook for Windows, providing a familiar interface for users transitioning from the older client. This update aims to ease the migration process for users moving to the New Outlook experience.