Outlook for iOS is gaining blue header design, sensory navigation feedback & more

Microsoft’s mobile Outlook client for iPhone and iPad is getting a refresh on App Store later today to bring the app visually on par with its Android counterpart, which has a blue header.

Microsoft said in a blog post this morning that a brand-new design will make it faster to navigate Outlook on the go as well as maximize your mobile productivity.

https://twitter.com/OfficeNews/status/1070332718473453570

The new-look app is fast and focused while striving to be as contextually relevant as possible. They’ve optimized swipe and scroll usability. There’s a new icon reflecting the recent Office 365 changes. You’ll also like account avatars, a strong header with bold color and typography (consistent across mobile email, search and calendar), plus all-new sensory feedback.

Here’s how Microsoft described the new sensory feedback features:

When you swipe right or left on an email, subtle changes in color, shape and iconography unfold. The corners of the message transform from hard-edged to soft and round, metaphorically pulling that item away from the message list and sending it where you want it to go—with haptic feedback.

Delight is brought to you through moments that happen within milliseconds, like the new animated calendar icon that fans forward or backward as you scroll through your agenda, or the instant insight provided in your inbox by signaling a potential meeting conflict. This craftsmanship makes Outlook mobile a gratifying, powerful experience as you quickly move on with your day.

The Focused Inbox toggle and message list filtering experience now orientate you to your content and accounts in a way that Microsoft says provides clarity and instills confidence.

Distinguishing multiple email and calendar accounts is now easier thanks to new account icons. These avatars also appear in contacts so you can recognize senders visually in:

  • Email messages
  • Your top contacts in search
  • Attendees in meeting

The event scheduling process benefits from the new options around the calendar that you can slide quickly to find the time and place that works best for you without typing a single letter.

The new design has starting to roll out this morning.

It’s a staggered release over the next few weeks so not all users shall get the overhauled app at once. If you currently don’t see the update, check back in App Store a few days later.

Outlook for iOS is a free download from App Store.