Microsoft Outlook: New user setting to include a comma in recipient’s contact name [MC981634]

Microsoft Outlook: New user setting to include a comma in recipient’s contact name [MC981634]

Message ID: MC981634

By default, Microsoft Outlook for the web and new Microsoft Outlook for Windows support separating recipients by using either a semicolon or a comma. After this rollout, users can choose if a comma should be used as a recipient separator or if it should be allowed as part of the contact’s name. This change is helpful for organizations where contacts use the "Last name, First name" format.

This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 470020.

[When this will happen:]

Targeted Release: We will begin rolling out in late February 2025 and expect to complete by late March 2025.

General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out in late March 2025 and expect to complete by late April 2025.

[How this will affect your organization:]

This release only includes the user-level setting to change the separator behavior, so users will need to change this default themselves if they need to. The default will continue to enable the comma as a separator.

Users can change the default to allow commas as part of the contact’s name in Outlook Settings > Mail > Compose and reply > Commas to separate recipients:

user settings

This change will be available by default.

[What you need to do to prepare:]

This rollout will happen automatically by the specified date with no admin action required before the rollout. Review your current configuration to determine the impact for your organization. You may want to notify your users about this change and update any relevant documentation.

#newoutlookforwindows

Source: Microsoft

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1 Comment

  1. Mike Rosoft

    The recent update to Microsoft Outlook regarding recipient name formatting is quite an interesting development for both admins and users alike. With the introduction of a user setting that allows for the inclusion of a comma in a recipient’s contact name, we can expect a smoother emailing experience, especially for organizations that prefer the “Last name, First name” format.

    For admins, the good news is that there’s minimal action required on your part. The rollout will happen automatically, so you can breathe a sigh of relief and focus on more pressing matters—like that mountain of paperwork or perhaps perfecting your coffee-making skills. However, it’s wise to review your current configurations and prepare to inform your users about this change. After all, knowledge is power, and in this case, it might save someone from a potential email faux pas!

    On the user side, this update promises to enhance the overall emailing experience. Users will have the flexibility to adjust their settings to suit their preferences without having to navigate through complicated configurations. It’s a win-win! However, it’s essential to remember that the default setting will still use a comma as a separator, so users who want to switch things up will need to make that change themselves. A gentle reminder from admins could go a long way in ensuring everyone is on the same page.

    In terms of impact, this change may seem subtle, but it can significantly streamline communication for teams that adhere to specific naming conventions. Plus, who doesn’t love a little customization in their digital life? Let’s face it—emailing can sometimes feel like a chore, and any enhancement that makes it feel a bit more personal is a welcome addition.

    As we look forward to the rollout beginning in late February 2025, we encourage everyone to share their thoughts and experiences in the comments below. How do you think this change will affect your email habits? Will you embrace the comma or stick with the semicolon? Let’s get the conversation going!

    For more insights and updates, be sure to check out additional posts on mwpro.co.uk. Happy emailing!

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