Published Sep 3, 2024
Microsoft Outlook for Windows will soon allow users to share local Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files via email. The rollout starts in October 2024 and finishes by August 2025. This feature is enabled by default, requiring no admin action prior to rollout. Users can share files directly from File Explorer.
Updated January 23, 2025: We have updated the rollout timeline below. Thank you for your patience.
Coming soon to new Microsoft Outlook: Users will be able to share Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft PowerPoint files stored on their device (not stored in a cloud like Microsoft OneDrive) from new Outlook for Windows.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 397094.
When this will happen:
General Availability (Worldwide, GCC): We will begin rolling out early October 2024 (previously mid-September) and expect to complete by late August 2025 (previously late December).
How this will affect your organization:
Before this rollout, users are only able to see old Outlook for Windows when they try to share a Word, Excel or PowerPoint fie.
After this rollout, when users want to share a Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file that is saved to their device (not stored in a cloud like Microsoft OneDrive), the user can right-click the file name in File Explorer, select Share, and select new Outlook for Windows to email the file.
This option is on 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. You may want to notify your users about this change and update any relevant documentation.