Microsoft is making several updates to Outlook on the web and the new Outlook for Windows in 2026. These updates retire a few lesser‑known features to simplify the experience and reduce overlap with other tools. Individuals who have never used these features are unlikely to notice any changes, but those who rely on them should review the details below.
1. Context IQ: “/” File Suggestions Is Being Retired
What is Context IQ?
Context IQ is a feature that shows suggested files and content when a forward slash ( / ) is typed while composing an email in the new Outlook or Outlook on the web. It was designed to help quickly insert recently used or relevant files.
Microsoft is retiring this feature to streamline email composition and reduce duplication with other attachment options.
When is this happening?
- Retirement Start Date: March 16, 2026
Microsoft releases changes gradually, so no specific date is given.
What will change?
- Slash ( / ) suggestions will no longer appear when composing email.
- No files or data will be deleted.
- The Editor feature (spell check, grammar suggestions) remains available by using the slash (/)
Files can still be attached using supported methods:
- Pasting a file or link directly into the email
- Dragging and dropping files into the message
- Using Insert > Attach file to browse or select suggested files
What action is needed?
No action is required.
2. OneView: Personal Email in Outlook on the Web Is Being Retired
What is OneView?
OneView allows personal email accounts (such as Gmail or Outlook.com) to be connected to a work mailbox in Outlook on the web , displaying multiple inboxes in a single view.
Microsoft is retiring this feature. After retirement, personal email accounts will no longer be accessible inside Outlook on the web.
When is this happening?
- Start: Early March 2026
- Complete: Late June 2026
Microsoft releases changes gradually, so no specific date is given.
How can affected users tell if they are using it?
OneView may be in use if:
- Folders from Gmail, Outlook.com, or another personal account appear under the work mailbox
- A personal account was previously connected in Settings > Mail > Sync email > Connected accounts
What will change?
- All connected personal email accounts will be automatically disconnected
- Personal emails will no longer appear in Outlook on the web
- Personal emails are not deleted and remain in the personal account
What action is needed?
No manual disconnection is required. Individuals who rely on access to personal email should plan to:
- Access personal email directly through its provider (for example, Gmail.com)
- Use the Outlook desktop app or a mobile email app for multi‑account access
- Manage work and personal email separately when using a web browser
3. TrueTime: Viewing Personal and Work Calendars Together Is Ending
What is TrueTime?
TrueTime allows personal and work calendars to be viewed together in Outlook on the web. It can also include personal calendar availability when others schedule meetings.
This feature is also being retired.
When is this happening?
- Start: Early March 2026
- Complete: Late June 2026
Microsoft releases changes gradually, so no specific date is given.
How can affected users tell if they are using it?
TrueTime may be in use if:
- Personal calendars appear under My calendars in Outlook on the web
- A personal calendar was connected under Settings > Calendar > Accounts
- Options such as “Include this account in my work availability” were enabled
What will change?
- Personal calendars will no longer appear in Outlook on the web
- Only the work calendar will remain visible
- Existing meeting invitations remain valid
- Work calendars and internal calendar sharing are not affected.
What action is needed?
Individuals who previously relied on combined calendar views should plan to:
- Open personal calendars in a separate browser tab or app
- Use Outlook desktop (Windows or Mac) for side‑by‑side calendar viewing
- Export personal calendar events if reference access is needed
Key Takeaways
- These changes affect Outlook on the web and the new Outlook for Windows only
- No emails or calendar events are deleted
- No action is required unless these features are currently in use
- Outlook desktop applications continue to support multiple accounts and calendars
Questions about how these changes impact day‑to‑day work should be directed to ITHelp@wustl.edu.