Set New Outlook as Default & Update Taskbar

Overview/Introduction

This guide explains how to set Microsoft Outlook (New Outlook) as your default email application and update your taskbar for quick and easy access.

*Note - if a user wants to keep classic Outlook, removing the Microsoft Teams meeting add-in from add/remove programs will allow classic to continue working.  There is a patch supposedly coming that using new or classic will not be an issue.

Details

Set New Outlook as Default Email App

1. Click Start Menu → Settings
2. Go to Apps → Default Apps
3. In the search bar, type Outlook
4. Select Outlook (New) -- Outlook 'New' may just appear as "Outlook". Outlook classic is usually marked as such; do not choose Outlook classic.
   
   
    
5. Set it as the default for all default file types and link types - MAILTO for example, see pics.
   • For any email-related file types listed, change all to Outlook (New) - or 'Outlook'; change all from 'Outlook classic'.
     
     
      

👉 This ensures email links open in New Outlook

Unpin Classic Outlook from Taskbar

1. Locate Outlook (Classic) on your taskbar.
2. Right-click the icon.
3. Select Unpin from taskbar.

Pin New Outlook to the Taskbar

1. Click Start Menu
2. Search for Outlook (New)
3. Right-click the app.
4. Select Pin to taskbar.

FAQs

Q: Can I still use Classic Outlook?
A:  While Microsoft is pushing the "New Outlook" (web-based) via an opt-in toggle, Classic is recommended only for those requiring COM add-ins, PST files, advanced rules, and full offline capabilities.

 Q: What if Outlook (New) does not appear?
A: Please contact the Tech Support for assistance.

See Also