Are you finding yourself a little perplexed when you open Outlook in 2021? If so, you’re not alone. Microsoft Outlook has rolled out some significant changes to its design and features this year, and you may be wondering just what’s going on. In this article, we will explore the changes and discuss why your Outlook looks different in 2021.

Why Does My Outlook Look Different in 2021?

Updated Features and Changes

Outlook has been updated in 2021 with a number of new features and changes. These changes are designed to improve the user experience, from enhanced search tools and better organization options, to improved security and privacy features. Microsoft has also given Outlook a new look with a modern design, making it easier to navigate and use.

One of the most notable changes in Outlook 2021 is the introduction of the Focused Inbox, which helps you to stay organized by keeping important messages at the top of your inbox. The Focused Inbox feature sorts your emails into two sections, Focused and Other, so you can quickly check what needs your attention and what can wait.

Another key update is the improved search functionality, which now allows you to search across your entire mailbox quickly and easily. Outlook 2021 also includes a new Conversation View, which allows you to keep track of related emails in a single view. This makes it easier to see the context of a conversation, as well as quickly find the emails you need.

Enhanced Privacy and Security

Outlook 2021 has been designed with security and privacy in mind. Microsoft has implemented a number of features to ensure that your emails and data remain secure, such as two-factor authentication and end-to-end encryption.

In addition, Outlook 2021 has a number of features to help protect your privacy. It includes a Data Rights Management feature, which allows you to set access controls on emails and attachments to ensure that only authorized users can view them. It also has a privacy screen, which allows you to hide sensitive information from view when you are sharing your screen with someone else.

New Design

Microsoft has also given Outlook 2021 a new design, making it easier to navigate and use. The interface has been simplified, with new icons, colors, and larger fonts, making it easier to find what you need. The new design is also responsive, meaning it will look great on any device, from desktop to mobile.

Better Collaboration Tools

Outlook 2021 has been designed to make it easier to collaborate and work with others. It now includes a range of tools, such as the ability to share calendars and task lists, as well as the ability to co-author documents in real-time. It also includes a new Teams integration, which allows you to quickly switch between Outlook and Teams and back again.

Integration with Other Apps

Outlook 2021 includes a range of integrations with popular apps and services, such as Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. These integrations allow you to quickly access the information and tools you need, without having to switch between apps.

Enhanced Usability

Microsoft has also improved the usability of Outlook 2021, making it easier to find and use the tools you need. It now includes a range of new shortcuts and commands, as well as an improved navigation bar, making it easier to switch between different views and tasks.

Increased Accessibility

Outlook 2021 has also been designed with accessibility in mind. It now includes support for screen readers, as well as improved keyboard navigation, making it easier for people with disabilities to use the app.

Improved Performance

Microsoft has also improved the performance of Outlook 2021, with faster loading times and improved syncing, making it easier to stay on top of your inbox.

Conclusion

Outlook 2021 has been updated with a range of new features and changes, from enhanced security and privacy to improved usability and collaboration tools. Microsoft has also given Outlook a new design, making it easier to navigate and use.

Related FAQ

What has changed in Outlook 2021?

Microsoft Outlook 2021 includes several updates from the previous version of Outlook. The most notable updates include a new look with a modern, simplified ribbon, enhanced search capabilities, enhanced message formatting capabilities, support for new file types, improved accessibility, and better collaboration capabilities. Additionally, the Outlook calendar has been redesigned to make it easier to manage events and tasks. The Outlook contact list now supports contact cards, which provide more detailed information about each contact. Finally, Outlook now has improved integration with Microsoft Teams, allowing users to communicate within the Outlook interface.

What is the new Outlook ribbon?

The new Outlook ribbon is a modern, simplified ribbon that replaces the traditional menu bar. It includes common commands and functions that are organized into categories, allowing users to quickly find and access the features they need. The ribbon is similar to other Microsoft Office products, making it easier for users to switch between applications. Additionally, it takes up less space on the screen, allowing users to see more of their emails and other content.

What new file types does Outlook 2021 support?

Outlook 2021 supports several new file types including PDF, CSV, and Excel files. Additionally, Outlook now supports the ability to preview Office documents such as Word, PowerPoint, and Excel within the Outlook interface. This allows users to quickly view documents without having to open them in a separate application.

What accessibility improvements have been made?

Outlook 2021 has improved accessibility features to make it easier for people with disabilities to use the application. These improvements include an improved high contrast mode, improved font scaling, and improved keyboard navigation. Additionally, Outlook has added support for screen readers and other assistive technologies.

How does Outlook 2021 improve collaboration?

Outlook 2021 has improved collaboration capabilities that make it easier for users to share and collaborate on emails, documents, and other content. Outlook now supports the ability to share documents with multiple users and to collaborate on documents in real-time. Additionally, Outlook now supports the ability to send large files up to 150MB in size, allowing users to quickly and easily share large files with colleagues.

What is the Outlook contact card?

The Outlook contact card is a new feature that provides more detailed information about each contact. The contact card provides the contact’s name, email address, phone numbers, and social media links. Additionally, the contact card can display a photo, if available. The contact card also provides quick access to the contact’s emails, tasks, and calendar events. This makes it easier for users to quickly access information about their contacts.

Fixed: Outlook Inbox view suddenly changed

We’ve come to the end of our exploration of why Outlook looks different in 2021. It’s clear that Microsoft is committed to providing users with the best experience possible, and their ongoing improvements and updates are evidence of that. With the introduction of new features like the simplified ribbon, improved security and privacy settings, and better support for different file types, Outlook 2021 is a great choice for staying organized and connected. Whether you’re a business user or a casual user, Outlook 2021 will help you stay productive and organized.