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
    2025-01-14T21:17:29+00:00

    Microsoft started blocking the Windows mail app completely this morning (at least for me). It used to be I could go in every day, change Outlook to use the classic version, then Windows Mail could launch. They started switching it automatically on every start and would have to go through the dance to get Mail back, but now even if you manage to get to it, they block it.

    Now I have three email accounts (out of six) that are stranded because the new Outlook can't seem to connect to them or authenticate (correct password, correct authentication, but then an error it couldn't connect).

    This is a garbage app for consumer mail. I am so pissed about this, am shut out of multiple accounts with no way back in.

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  2. Anonymous
    2025-01-14T21:28:53+00:00

    Indeed. There's not supporting something, and then there's actively sabotaging it.

    I can still use Windows XP if I want. Heck, I could still use Windows 95 if I want. They still WORK, even if they're not supported anymore. This is an actual effort to sabotage the existing Mail program.

    And, to Chris Nicola...

    I'm reluctant to try your solution, because I'm afraid removing Outlook entirely might leave me with NO mail program, if the download you suggest is ALSO blocked, or unavalable.

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  3. Anonymous
    2025-01-14T23:39:52+00:00

    100% agree! I took my laptop to a computer tech who still couldn't get the app to work with my email account. Finally, just deleted the app and use both my email accounts via webmail.

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  4. Anonymous
    2025-01-15T06:55:56+00:00

    And shoving stupid s*** will only get worse as the donald steps in with his laughable cabinet picks. Windows like cabinet picks will think we must bow down. I say F*** YOU.

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