Microsoft - Outlook (New) problems and solutions

Microsoft - Outlook (New) problems and solutions

Problem

A customer using magnification or a screen reader encounters Microsoft's new Outlook application with which they are unfamiliar.

Applies to

  1. Outlook (New)

Resolution

The Microsoft Outlook (New) application is being installed onto Windows 11 systems and is intended to replace the existing Outlook (Classic) application.  However, there are some differnces that may require answers.  Below are some common questions and potential solutions.

Q:  When pressing ALT+F for File menu nothing happens.
A:  There is no File menu in Outlook (New) application.

Q:  Why do email messages you open don't appear in ALT+TAB order (or as a separate window)?
A:  Messages you open do not open in a separate window in Outlook (New). You can set Outlook (New) to open a new window when you reply, forward or create a new message via Settings > Email > Compose and reply > Pop-out settings.

Q: Pressing TAB key repeatedly no longer seems to navigate to the folder navigation pane.
A:  Press F6 or CONTROL+Y instead.

Q:  When opening an email for the first time after starting Outlook (New) pressing escape does not close the message.  
A:  Press TAB key until you reach close button then press SPACEBAR.  After this ESCAPE will close any other messages you open.

Q:  Does Outlook (New) do spell check wizard?
A:  The new Outlook does not have a spell check wizard, instead it is set by default to correct any spellings are you type instead.  It will also indicate if spelling is incorrect but does not provide correct alternatives from the context menu when you press SHIFT+F10.

Q:  When creating a message you cannot access the ribbon menu using he ALT or F10 key.
A:  Press F6 whilst editing your message, then press left/right arrow for top ribbon items, press TAB and then left/right arrow keys to access the buttons.

Q:  Can you go back to Outlook classic.
A:  As of writing July 2025 you can, however longer term Microsoft intend to replace Outlook classic.





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