![New Microsoft Outlook for Windows: Read-only support for .pst files [MC931404]](https://mwpro.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/pexels-tirachard-kumtanom-112571-347139-1024x768.webp)
Message ID: MC931404
Outlook Data Files (.pst) or Personal Storage Tables files contain Microsoft Outlook user messages and other Outlook items (contacts, appointments, tasks, notes, and journal entries) saved in local files on each user’s computer.
With this rollout, the first phase of support for .pst files in the new Microsoft Outlook for Windows will provide read-only access to Mail items in .pst files. Users will be able to open .pst files, read their e-mails in .pst files, and search .pst files for e-mails. All Calendar, Contacts, and Tasks data are saved in .pst files, but cannot be accessed in this preview. In future releases, we will expand the support for PST support capabilities.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 399467.
[When this will happen:]
Targeted Release: We will begin rolling out late November 2024 and expect to complete by early December 2024.
General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out mid-January 2025 and expect to complete by late January 2025.
[How this will affect your organization:]
Users will be able to open .pst files, read their e-mails in .pst files, and search .pst files for e-mails.
- To open an Outlook Data File (.pst), go to Settings > General > Outlook Data Files
- Select Add file
- Select Continue to open
- Select a .pst file and then select Open
Requirements
- Outlook Data Files (.pst) require M365 to be installed.
- Outlook Data Files (.pst) require M365 subscription.
- Outlook Data File support is not available with ARM version of new Outlook for Windows.
Policy
Outlook Data File support is enabled by default in new Outlook for Windows, but you can limit and disable it with the OutlookDataFile mailbox policy. The new Outlook for Windows only enforces the OutlookDataFile policy of the primary account. For more information on enabling the policy, refer to the OutlookDataFile parameter in Set-OwaMailboxPolicy.
NOTE: The group policy used to control Outlook Data File (.pst) in classic Microsoft Outlook for Windows desktop does not affect new Outlook for Windows.
[What you need to do to prepare:]
Outlook Data File (.pst) support is enabled by default in new Outlook for Windows. If you organization wants to block or limit Outlook Data File support, set the OutlookDataFile mailbox policy.
This rollout will happen automatically by the specified date with no admin action required before the rollout. You may want to notify your users about this change and update any relevant documentation.
Before rollout, we will update this post with revised documentation.
Source: Microsoft
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The recent announcement regarding the new Microsoft Outlook for Windows, which introduces read-only support for .pst files, is sure to stir up a mix of reactions among both administrators and users.
For users, this update is a step in the right direction! With the ability to open, read, and search through their .pst files, many will find it easier to access their archived emails. However, the catch is that while you can read your emails, you won’t be able to access Calendar, Contacts, or Tasks data just yet. So, for those who rely heavily on their .pst files for more than just emails, this may feel like a bit of a tease. But hey, at least you can finally give those dusty old files a read!
On the admin side, the rollout is relatively smooth. The feature is enabled by default, which means no extra work is required to get it up and running. However, for organizations that prefer to limit or disable this feature, they have the option to implement the OutlookDataFile mailbox policy. This flexibility is key, as it allows admins to tailor the experience to fit their organization’s needs without causing too much disruption.
Overall, while the initial phase of read-only access might seem limited, it opens the door to future enhancements. The anticipation of expanded capabilities for Calendar, Contacts, and Tasks in future releases is something to look forward to. It’s like waiting for the sequel to a great movie—you know it’s going to be worth it!
As we all gear up for this update, it would be great to hear your thoughts! How do you think this will impact your workflow? Will you be diving back into those .pst files, or do you have a different take on this update? Join the conversation below and let’s share insights! For more updates and discussions, don’t forget to check out additional posts on mwpro.co.uk!