New Microsoft Outlook: Changes to how shared mailboxes are displayed in the folder pane [MC1058261]

Message ID: MC1058261

Coming soon for new Microsoft Outlook for Windows desktop: To align with the behavior of classic Outlook for Windows, we will display shared mailboxes in the same way accounts are displayed and add a Shared icon to give users a visual distinction between standard mailboxes and shared mailboxes.

This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 486837.

[When this will happen:]

Targeted Release: We will begin rolling out early May 2025 and expect to complete by late May 2025.

General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out early June 2025 and expect to complete by late June 2025.

General Availability (GCC): We will begin rolling out early July 2025 and expect to complete by late July 2025.

[How this will affect your organization:]

After this rollout, shared mailbox users and delegates will no longer have a Shared with me section in the folder pane on the left of the screen. Shared mailboxes and shared folders will display at the same level as accounts in the folder pane. Users will also see a teaching message pointing to the new shared mailboxes and shared folders, so users are not surprised by the change. Users will not lose any shared mailboxes or shared folders.

Left: The Shared with me section before the rollout. Right: After the rollout:

This change will be on by default.

[What you need to do to prepare:]

This rollout will happen automatically by the specified dates with no admin action required before the rollout. You may want to notify your users about this change and update any relevant documentation.

Learn more: Open and use a shared mailbox in Outlook – Microsoft Support (will be updated before rollout)

#newoutlookforwindows

Source: Microsoft

Mike Rosoft

19 April 2025, 7:44 am

The recent update to Microsoft Outlook is set to bring some interesting changes for both admins and users, and it’s worth taking a moment to assess how these changes will impact everyone involved.

For users, the most noticeable change will be the way shared mailboxes are displayed in the folder pane. Gone is the “Shared with me” section, which some might argue was about as useful as a chocolate teapot. Instead, shared mailboxes will now be displayed alongside regular accounts, complete with a shiny new “Shared” icon for easy identification. This should simplify navigation and help users find what they’re looking for without the extra clicks. Plus, the teaching message that will pop up during the transition is a thoughtful touch to ease everyone into the new setup. No one likes surprises, unless they come wrapped in a bow!

Admins, on the other hand, will appreciate that this change requires no action on their part. The rollout is automatic, which means less time spent on troubleshooting and more time focusing on other important tasks. However, it’s a good idea for admins to communicate these changes to their users and update any relevant documentation. After all, a well-informed team is a happy team!

In terms of impact, this update is likely to enhance user experience significantly, making it easier to manage multiple mailboxes. While the initial adjustment may cause a few raised eyebrows, the clarity and efficiency gained will outweigh any temporary confusion. It’s all about streamlining processes and making life a little easier for everyone.

So, what are your thoughts on this update? Are you looking forward to the changes, or do you have any concerns? Let’s keep the conversation going! Feel free to share your insights or experiences in the comments below. And for more information on this and other updates, check out additional posts at mwpro.co.uk.

1 Comment

Mike Rosoft


19 April 2025, 7:44 am

The recent update to Microsoft Outlook is set to bring some interesting changes for both admins and users, and it’s worth taking a moment to assess how these changes will impact everyone involved.

For users, the most noticeable change will be the way shared mailboxes are displayed in the folder pane. Gone is the “Shared with me” section, which some might argue was about as useful as a chocolate teapot. Instead, shared mailboxes will now be displayed alongside regular accounts, complete with a shiny new “Shared” icon for easy identification. This should simplify navigation and help users find what they’re looking for without the extra clicks. Plus, the teaching message that will pop up during the transition is a thoughtful touch to ease everyone into the new setup. No one likes surprises, unless they come wrapped in a bow!

Admins, on the other hand, will appreciate that this change requires no action on their part. The rollout is automatic, which means less time spent on troubleshooting and more time focusing on other important tasks. However, it’s a good idea for admins to communicate these changes to their users and update any relevant documentation. After all, a well-informed team is a happy team!

In terms of impact, this update is likely to enhance user experience significantly, making it easier to manage multiple mailboxes. While the initial adjustment may cause a few raised eyebrows, the clarity and efficiency gained will outweigh any temporary confusion. It’s all about streamlining processes and making life a little easier for everyone.

So, what are your thoughts on this update? Are you looking forward to the changes, or do you have any concerns? Let’s keep the conversation going! Feel free to share your insights or experiences in the comments below. And for more information on this and other updates, check out additional posts at mwpro.co.uk.

1 Comment

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