Microsoft Copilot Needs New Outlook: Time to Start the Shift
If you’ve been clinging to Classic Outlook like a relationship that you know is over, but dating again seems like so much work, it’s time to let go of the past. There’s a new, better partner for you in New Outlook.
Even better, this exciting prospect comes with a bonus. Microsoft Copilot has officially moved in with New Outlook – which means the writing is on the wall. If you want to take advantage of this incredible AI-powered productivity assistant, let’s start that shift.
Copilot & New Outlook: They go together like peas and carrots
Microsoft Copilot is here to stay, and it’s only getting better. Designed with you in mind, it is a true power partner for Word, Excel, PowerPoint and yes, Outlook.
But here’s the catch: many of Copilot’s most powerful features are only available in the New Outlook experience. That includes AI-generated email drafts, meeting summaries, tone coaching, and even personalized suggestions based on your work patterns[1].
The New Outlook isn’t just a facelift—it’s a full renovation. It offers a cleaner interface, unified inbox, improved search, and deeper integration with Microsoft 365 apps like Teams and To Do[2]. And now, with Copilot embedded directly into the toolbar, users can summon AI assistance with a click—whether they’re drafting a message, summarizing a thread, or prepping for a meeting[4].
What’s in it for me?
So glad you asked. As always, Microsoft’s got your back.
Smarter Email Management: Copilot can summarize long threads, suggest follow-ups, and even coach your tone for clarity and professionalism[1]. Like the most enthusiastic and organized assistant in the cubicle, Copilot can whip through that inbox in no time, making you look amazing in the process.
Time-Saving Automation: From scheduling meetings to organizing inboxes, Copilot in New Outlook helps you reclaim hours of your day. It frees you up for extra coffee runs, a little light scrolling or a moment of meditation, the possibilities are endless. What you do with those extra hours is up to you.
Cross-Platform Intelligence: With connectors to Gmail, Google Drive, and more, Copilot can pull insights from multiple sources and present them in one place[5]. Copilot knows that you have friends all over the internet, and it’s happy to work with Google to make sure you can get the most out of your workday.
Offline Enhancements: The June 2025 update expanded offline capabilities, allowing users to sync more mail and access search folders without internet[6]. And if this last update is any indication of the direction that Microsoft is headed with Copilot, don’t expect the enhancements to stop anytime soon.
Whatchu waiting for?
Change is hard. We get it. At first, even WE didn’t want to let go of Classic Outlook. It was a familiar friend in a crowd of new, up-and-coming email configurations.
The good news is that Microsoft knows that change is hard. That’s why they are working on updates for New Outlook to make sure that features like support for .pst files, shared folders and improved offline sync are on the table[6].
And you can still toggle back to Classic Outlook if needed. When you want to visit, go ahead. Feeling nostalgic? Click on the toggle button and say hey to an old friend. But know that Microsoft is investing heavily in New Outlook, and Copilot is the centerpiece of their vision.
The Bottom Line: Copilot Needs New Outlook
If you want Copilot to be your productivity partner, you need to meet it where it lives. That means embracing New Outlook—not just for its good looks, but for the AI capabilities that can actually transform your workday.
Don’t take our word for it. Try speed dating New Outlook and let it win you over. Explore what a fun, spicy new relationship might look like. Check out the features, test the tools, and see how Copilot in New Outlook can elevate your workflow.
Face it. You’ve evolved, and Classic isn’t the right partner for you anymore. Even your friends tell you – it's time to move on. Your new relationship is waiting. Fluff your hair in the mirror, grab a breath mint and go. It’s time.
If you want to explore what Copilot and New Outlook can do for you, jump into our 6 Week Challenge here: Microsoft 365 Copilot Business Challenge - Collab365 Academy
You can join us anytime – recordings are available within the challenge for anything you missed or anything you want to review. It’s not too late – there are 5 more weeks that you can get into the challenge, learn more about Copilot and know how it can make your workday better, easier and more efficient.
References:
[1] Unlocking the Potential of Microsoft Copilot for Your
[2] Getting started with New Outlook
[4] June edition: Copilot for Microsoft 365 updates
[5] TweakTown
[6] windowsreport.com