Will there be a way to continue using Windows mail instead of the new Outlook?

Anonymous
2023-08-15T15:12:03+00:00

I keep seeing that Outlook is supposed to take over Windows Mail as the default mail app. But will the Windows Mail app still be available to use? I do not want to be forced to use Outlook. When I tried the preview, it had ads that I thought were my actual mail, and the app I find is just too busy overall. I don't want a bunch of stuff in the way of me reading my email. Windows Mail is simple, I like the interface, it's not too busy, and my mail is prominent within the window.

Edit 2025:
I got tired of the shenanigans and switched to Wino Mail app. I will likely switch to Linux OS in the future as MS is starting to go off the rails.

Outlook | Windows | Classic Outlook for Windows | For business

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Anonymous
2023-08-15T15:52:34+00:00

Hello Skeleton! My name is Jeremy and I’m happy to help you with your question.

Although Outlook will be the new default mail app, you can still change your default mail app back to Windows Mail and use Windows mail.

I understand your concern and appreciate your viewpoint so when the time comes do not worry you will still be able to use Windows Mail.

This change is referring to what apps are shipped with Windows 11 not that the apps will no longer work for old users.

Regards,

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  1. Anonymous
    2024-11-05T19:30:37+00:00

    There are several ways to make the old Mail and Calendar app work (for now at least!)

    https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook_com/forum/outlk_win-outtop_new-outsub_ofh/how-to-stop-the-new-outlook-from-automatically/34246983-2a13-4462-8a8a-df618c36ca3f?page=4

    Some methods leave the old outlook installed. Other methods involve uninstalling it.

    Here is another suggestion.

    1- Click on settings and go to apps. Search for Outlook (new) and uninstall it.

    2- Open windows store and search for Mail and Calendar app. Make sure it is installed. If not install it.

    3- You can open it from Windows Store. Otherwise go to programmes and launch it from there. You can also go to the Windows programes and create a start menu icon or pin to the taskbar.

    4- The Mail and calendar app should work as long as you NEVER close it. Instead of closing it, just hybernate your PC. If you ever close and reopen the Mail app or Shutdown and restart you PC then the new Outlook will take over again.

    If that method is not practical then you can try this other method.

    1- Click on settings and go to apps. Search for Outlook (new) and uninstall it.

    2- Open windows store and search for Mail and Calendar app. Make sure it is installed. If not install it.

    3- You can open it from Windows Store. Otherwise go to programmes and launch it from there. You can also go to the Windows programes and create a start menu icon or pin to the taskbar.

    4- Go to https://github.com/matej137/OutlookRemover

    5- Click on the green "Code" button and download the zip file.

    6- Unzip the zip file and inside one of the folders you will find a file, "outlook.bat" Right click it and select "Run as administrator". This will install a dummy version of the new outlook.

    7- Run the old Mail and Calendar app. Now it should work without the new outlook taking over. Check the "Readme" file for more information.

    Please let us know if you get stuck and need further help.

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    Kind regards

    Chris

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  2. Anonymous
    2024-11-05T17:29:47+00:00

    Wow, thanks for trying but that is far too complicated for this 90 year old user.

    ******@HOTMAIL.COM

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  3. Anonymous
    2024-11-05T15:30:48+00:00

    The time came it seems.

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  4. Anonymous
    2024-11-01T05:27:39+00:00

    Jeremy - how can I get my Windows Mail back. Outlook comes up when I click on my e-mails? So, I get nothing.

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