Microsoft Pauses Outlook Classic People Card Removal After Backlash
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Microsoft has paused the Outlook Classic people card change that would have removed the expanded view and left users with only the standard people card, as started in MC1269210.
The expanded people card displays more detailed information about colleagues, making it useful for users who need quick access to workplace and contact details.
Microsoft’s Original Retirement Plan
Microsoft first announced the deprecation in April 2026.
Under the original plan, Outlook Classic would retain only the standard people card view. The expanded experience would continue to exist in New Outlook and Outlook on the web.
Microsoft said removing the expanded view would simplify Outlook Classic and create a more streamlined experience.
However, the plan would have reduced the amount of information available directly from people cards in the classic desktop application.
Users Criticized the Outlook Classic Change
The decision attracted criticism from customers who regularly use the expanded people card.
Some users saw the planned removal as another attempt to encourage migration from Outlook Classic to New Outlook.
New Outlook continues to face resistance from users who prefer the features, interface, and workflows available in Outlook Classic.
Removing another established feature from the classic application added to concerns that Microsoft was gradually limiting Outlook Classic while prioritizing its newer client.
Expanded People Card Deprecation Paused
Microsoft now says it has paused the retirement of the expanded people card view.
The feature will remain available in Outlook Classic for the time being, allowing users to continue accessing the more detailed colleague information.
Microsoft has not confirmed whether it has permanently cancelled the deprecation.
The company’s wording leaves open the possibility that it could revisit the removal at a later date.
For now, Outlook Classic users will retain access to both the standard and expanded people card experiences.
In other news, Copilot is coming to Outlook Classic with AI email drafting, while Microsoft is replacing Outlook Meeting Insights with a paid Copilot feature.
Microsoft has also finally brought Outlook Classic’s Quick Parts feature to New Outlook for everyone.
Via Neowin
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