Updated September 1, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
[Introduction]
We’re adding support for sending locally stored Word, Excel, and PowerPoint files as email attachments directly through the new Outlook for Windows. This update streamlines the sharing experience and aligns with ongoing efforts to bring feature parity between classic Outlook for Windows and the new Outlook.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 557675.
[When this will happen]
- General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out in early November 2026 (previously early September) and expect to complete by early December 2026 (previously late September).
- General Availability (GCC): We will begin rolling out in mid-January 2027 (previously early October 2026) and expect to complete by mid-February 2027 (previously late October 2026).
[How this affects your organization]
Who is affected
- Users working with locally stored Word, Excel, or PowerPoint files (not stored in OneDrive).
- Organizations adopting or transitioning to the new Outlook for Windows.
What will happen
- Users can now share local Office files as email attachments directly through the new Outlook for Windows.
- Users will no longer need to rely on the classic Outlook for Windows to send local file attachments.
- This feature is ON by default.
- There is no change to existing admin controls or policies, and all existing Outlook/Exchange policies continue to apply.
[What you can do to prepare]
No admin action is required.
To prepare your organization, you may:
- Inform help desk staff about this update to reduce support inquiries.
- Update your internal documentation if it references classic Outlook workflows.
- Encourage users to adopt the new Outlook for Windows if your organization is transitioning away from classic Outlook.
[Compliance considerations]
No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.