Microsoft launches Outlook.com beta with design overhaul and faster search

Microsoft has announced Outlook.com beta program that will bring a faster Outlook.com with new ways to personalize emails, a smarter inbox, and calendar, and a “more connected” people experience.

Users who are interested in trying out some potential new Outlook.com features before they are rolled out to the mainstream can opt in by switching the "Try the Beta" toggle located on the top right corner of their Outlook.com inbox. If you don't like the new look, you will also have the option to switch back to the non-beta version at any time.

Here's a look at what's new in the Outlook.com beta:

A faster experience- A more responsive web development framework means quicker loading, an upgraded search feature, a fresher look with a modern conversation style, and a new design to let you see, read, and attach files faster.

Better personalization- You can personalize your inbox with your favorite people and folders to make it easier to find friends, files, and conversations that matter to you and give your communications a personal touch with an easier way to access tons of expressions, including popular emojis and GIFs right inside Outlook.

A smarter inbox- Your inbox now shows you Quick Suggestions as you type—so you can easily add information about restaurants, flights, or your favorite teams’ schedules to your conversations. An improved photo experience puts all the pictures sent or received in your email in one place and makes it easier to share them with others. The new modern conversation style makes it easier to manage and preview photos and attachments.

Additional features are set to be rolled over the next few months, including updates to calendar and people. Not all Outlook.com users will see this opt-in immediately, Microsoft officials said. The roll-out will be a phased one. The beta opt-in should be available to all Outlook.com users worldwide "in the next few weeks," officials said.