How to Switch from Classic Outlook to New Outlook

If your Outlook interface looks outdated or your IT team requested a move to the newer version, you are likely still running the classic desktop app. You can switch to the modern interface without losing any of your emails, calendar events, or folder structures.

Why this happens

Microsoft currently maintains two separate Outlook applications on Windows. You may simply be clicking the shortcut for the older version instead of the modern one.

What you'll need

If the new application is missing, you will need access to the Microsoft Store to download the installer.

Steps

1. 01
   Press the Windows key and type Outlook into the search bar.
2. 02
   Look for two separate icons: one labeled Outlook and one labeled Outlook Classic.
3. 03
   Click the icon that says just Outlook to launch the new version.
4. 04
   If you only see Outlook Classic in your search results, visit the Microsoft Store and search for Outlook for Windows to install the latest version.
5. 05
   Launch the new application and verify your emails and calendar data are present.