New Outlook - Completely Sucks

ALL - Has anyone else noticed their non-new Outlook has been acting very very slow lately perhaps after an update to outlook/office?

There is speculation and rumors' around that Microsoft is pushing out updates that slow down OL (like how how apples updates make the phone less and less useful over time so you have to replace it every few years) so as to make it miserable and force users to the new OL that while total trash would not be as slow to deal with as the older OL. A form of planned obscelescence to force us all to that which we hate but which they want us to use.

I do. I was able to go back to old OL three weeks ago after trying for around 5 month. Was working perfectly but a week ago, starting to act very slowly. Thinking it was my computer but look like it's not.

I hate Apple because of the fasle non corporate cool image they try to push forward, but lately, MS, with there shifty product they try to push in our throat, is far worst.

Something need to be done to stop these monople to act like this.

I contacted Microsoft's Store Chat room.

Since i bought Microsoft Home and Student version, Outlook standalone is not included. I got the "new outlook" which is missing many of the features we took for granted in the prior versions.

Per the chat discussion, I was able to toggle into the classic version. I still would require to subscribe to Microsoft annual services to gain access to the old functionality of Outlook.

Optionally, I can go back to Costco and buy Microsoft Home and Office which includes stand alone Outlook.

I spent $150 on Home and Student which I am not complaining about. Now I am told to buy Home and Office which is $250.

Wish I could just get the Home and Student version upgraded.

Unfortunately non-corporate/business sales are an afterthought to Microsoft so you can expect less then expected customer service. The reason they still have individual sales is so to prevent employees from purchasing (for personal use) some alterative (say from Apple) that wit h enough doing that and bragging about how better a product it is at work it could result in companies cancelling office365 for some competitor. MS will feign care for individual sales but it's just drama. The reason they are getting away with this New OL **** is because the decision makers at companies, the ones who decide if they renew/purchase Office 365, often have secretaries/others handle the email so they don't experience the pain the rest of the employees do and as long as Microsoft keeps those decision makers happy they couldn't care less about the rest of the users.

I am writing to express my deep frustration with the recent overhaul of Outlook. As a long-time user, I’ve come to rely on its features for seamless communication and productivity. However, the recent changes have left me bewildered and disappointed.

1. Hidden Sync Functionality: The decision to replace “Send/Receive” with “Sync” is baffling. Why hide such a critical function under the “View” tab? It’s like hiding the ignition key in the glove compartment of a car. Users expect essential actions to be easily accessible, not buried in obscure corners.
2. User Experience Regression: The new interface feels like a step backward. Simplicity is admirable, but not at the cost of functionality. The minimalist design sacrifices usability. I miss the old toolbar, where everything was within reach. Now, I find myself hunting for basic functions like a detective in a labyrinth.
3. Apple Imitation Syndrome: Microsoft, please resist the urge to mimic Apple. Yes, Apple’s design is sleek, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. We need a distinct Microsoft experience—one that caters to power users, professionals, and those who rely on Outlook for business.
4. Communication Gap: Why weren’t users informed about these changes beforehand? A simple heads-up would have softened the blow. Instead, we were left to decipher the new layout like archaeologists deciphering ancient hieroglyphs.

In conclusion, I implore you to listen to your users. We’re not asking for perfection, but we do expect transparency, thoughtful design, and respect for our workflows. Outlook is more than an app; it’s a lifeline for many of us. Please restore the balance between innovation and usability.

Sincerely, A Frustrated User