Listen to this Post
Microsoft is currently investigating a significant issue affecting users of the new Outlook email client. When users attempt to revert to the classic Outlook experience by clicking the “Go to classic Outlook” button, the application unexpectedly crashes instead of guiding them to the intended support documentation. This has caused frustration among users who prefer the traditional interface over the new Outlook version.
To mitigate the issue, Microsoft has provided a temporary workaround, allowing users to manually install the classic Outlook client. Meanwhile, the company continues its investigation and has also been making other major changes to its Outlook ecosystem.
Microsoft’s Outlook Transition Issues
Microsoft recently introduced a new Outlook email client as part of its Microsoft 365 suite. However, users attempting to switch back to classic Outlook have encountered a bug where clicking the designated button causes the application to close abruptly. Instead of redirecting users to a support page with instructions on downloading classic Outlook, the app simply crashes.
Current Workaround and Recommendations
- Microsoft suggests a temporary fix by downloading the classic Outlook client directly via a support document link or from the Microsoft Store.
- Users with work or school accounts may require IT administrator assistance to reinstall classic Outlook if they encounter restrictions.
Background on Microsoft’s Outlook Strategy
- In December 2023, Microsoft announced that its Microsoft 365 desktop client would now ship with both the classic and new Outlook versions.
- IT administrators were advised to exclude the new Outlook from installations if unnecessary.
- Starting in January 2024, Microsoft force-installed the new Outlook client on Windows 10 devices via the KB5050081 preview update.
- By February 2024, the new Outlook became a default installation as part of Windows security updates.
Recent Outlook Issues and Fixes
Microsoft has been actively resolving issues related to Outlook, including:
– January 2024: A bug affecting drag-and-drop functionality for emails and calendar items in Outlook on Windows 24H2 systems.
– Earlier in 2024: Crashes in classic Outlook when composing, replying, or forwarding emails.
– Windows Server Issues: Microsoft 365 applications and classic Outlook were crashing on Windows Server 2016/2019.
What Undercode Says:
Microsoft’s move to integrate the new Outlook into its Microsoft 365 ecosystem has been met with mixed reactions. While the company aims to streamline email management and improve performance, forcing the new Outlook on users has raised concerns.
Key Observations
1. Forced Migration Frustrates Users
- Microsoft has gradually made the new Outlook mandatory, limiting user choice.
- Many users still prefer classic Outlook due to familiarity, stability, and existing workflows.
2. Frequent Bugs and Reliability Concerns
- The new Outlook has experienced multiple issues, from crashes to missing features.
- Transitioning to the new client should be optional, allowing users to switch when it’s more stable.
3. Impact on Enterprise and IT Administrators
- IT teams are now responsible for managing compatibility issues, increasing workload.
- Organizations relying on classic Outlook integrations are struggling with the forced switch.
4. Security and Functionality Trade-offs
- While Microsoft positions the new Outlook as more secure, it has introduced usability trade-offs.
- Some critical enterprise features are missing or still being developed for the new client.
5. Microsoft’s Track Record with Forced Updates
- Similar to Windows 11’s system requirements, Microsoft’s forced update approach has drawn criticism.
- Users prefer gradual transitions rather than abrupt, unavoidable software changes.
What Should Microsoft Do?
- Offer a stable, fully functional classic Outlook as an alternative.
- Ensure seamless transitions with fewer bugs and unexpected crashes.
- Improve communication with IT admins and users about changes.
- Allow opt-outs for organizations that prefer to delay new Outlook adoption.
Microsoft needs to prioritize user experience while rolling out updates. A more user-friendly, transparent transition plan will reduce frustrations and improve adoption.
Fact Checker Results
- Claim: Clicking “Go to classic Outlook” crashes the app instead of opening support documentation.
- Verdict: True – Confirmed by Microsoft’s official support document.
Claim: Microsoft is force-installing the new Outlook on Windows 10.
Verdict: True – This rollout began with the KB5050081 update in January 2024.
Claim: Classic Outlook is no longer available for download.
- Verdict: False – Microsoft still provides a manual download option via the Microsoft Store and support links.
References:
Reported By: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/microsoft/microsoft-says-button-to-restore-classic-outlook-is-broken/
Extra Source Hub:
https://www.quora.com
Wikipedia
Undercode AI
Image Source:
Pexels
Undercode AI DI v2
