The new Outlook app is getting more offline functionality, such as being able to view attachments without an internet connection.
Microsoft is adding new features to the new Outlook. These are primarily aimed at improving the offline version. Functions such as adding multiple recipients to an email, viewing files, and visibility of shared mailboxes should now work better when using Outlook offline.
Windows Latest notes that the new features are being rolled out gradually. Not all announced offline features are available yet in the most recent stable version of Outlook. For example, files are not yet available offline at this time, as Outlook only stores files in the cloud.
New features
Soon, email attachments will also be stored locally so you can view them offline. This should be available to all Outlook users by the end of this month. Other new features are in the pipeline.
In addition to more offline functionality, the new Outlook also improves the quick reply function and introduces a new shortcut to search for specific information in emails (CTRL + F). Outlook users know that finding a specific email via the search bar can be quite a challenge.
Gradual Transition
With new offline features, the new Outlook is primarily catching up to the ‘classic’ version. The lack of offline support was just one of many reasons why many users still avoid the new version. Microsoft seems to realize that improved functionality is the best way to convince users.
Nevertheless, Microsoft is sticking to its plan to transition all users by early next year. However, it’s now taking a more subtle approach by allowing both versions to coexist. If you’re still not convinced by the new Outlook, you can still block the transition. The classic version will continue to be supported by Microsoft until 2029.
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