New Outlook for Windows can sync email in the background even when the app is closed. Microsoft announced the feature in its April 10, 2026 release notes, which also explain where to disable it: Settings > General > Offline.
What does the New Outlook background sync feature do?
Microsoft’s Outlook for Windows (new) release notes state: “Outlook now syncs your email in the background even when the app is closed.” The announcement is listed under April 10, 2026. It describes email synchronization while New Outlook is closed; it does not specify how quickly messages sync or provide a technical description of how the feature works.
How do you turn background email sync off?
In New Outlook, open Settings > General > Offline and disable the background email sync option. That is the control path Microsoft gives in the release note. The release note does not provide additional requirements or explain how the setting behaves across different account types.
When will the feature appear in New Outlook?
The April 10 date identifies when Microsoft listed the feature, not a guaranteed arrival date for every user. Microsoft says features in its release notes roll out to all versions automatically, while its technical overview explains that New Outlook features are flighted through release rings; organizations or users may also be included in Targeted release. See Microsoft’s release-note rollout guidance and New Outlook technical overview for those rollout details.
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How is this different from pressing Sync?
Background sync is intended to happen while the app is closed. Separately, Microsoft documents a manual command in New Outlook: use View > Sync, or press F9. The manual-sync guidance does not explain the technical requirements or timing of background synchronization. See Microsoft’s instructions for syncing email manually.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is this the same as notifications while Outlook is closed?
No. Email synchronization and calendar notifications while Outlook is closed are separate features. Microsoft’s guidance for calendar notifications while Outlook is closed covers enabling an Outlook option and Windows notification settings; it should not be read as the setup procedure for background email sync.
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