Microsoft is bringing Offline support to the new Outlook app for Windows 11, addressing a feature that was missing from the initial release. While not all areas of Outlook web can function without an internet connection, the Calendar is among the sections that will work offline.

In September, Microsoft released a new version of Outlook for Windows 11. This version is built on Outlook.com and Microsoft Edge WebView and is now widely available after undergoing Beta testing, which began in May 2022.

One of the upcoming updates for Outlook will focus on improving attachment access. Soon, users will be able to open Word, Excel, and PowerPoint attachments directly in their respective applications. This streamlining of attachment access aims to enhance the user experience.

Another exciting development on the horizon is the integration of AI assistant ‘Copilot’ into Outlook. With Copilot, users will receive assistance in writing emails and other tasks within the platform. Microsoft’s plan is to incorporate AI technology to make email composition and content summarization more efficient and convenient.

Microsoft has already taken steps to ensure Outlook’s compatibility with Gmail accounts. Now, the company is testing Offline support to further enhance the app’s functionality. By leveraging a service called Service Worker, Outlook will have the ability to work offline and provide users with access to mail, calendar entries, and contacts without an active internet connection.

In addition to these improvements, Outlook will introduce features that simplify the user experience. For instance, double-clicking on attachments such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files will trigger their automatic launch in the corresponding desktop applications, allowing for a seamless workflow.

Furthermore, Microsoft plans to expand Copilot’s capabilities beyond just email composition. The AI assistant will serve as a guide, suggesting action items and refining the tone and length of messages. These AI features will not be exclusive to the Windows platform but will benefit Outlook users on Mac, web, iOS, and Android as well.

With these advancements, Microsoft is making Outlook a more robust and user-friendly application for Windows 11 users. From offline support and streamlined attachment access to AI-driven assistance, Outlook is set to become an even more powerful tool for managing emails and staying organized.