It's over on January 1st: Microsoft is switching off mail and calendar apps in Windows 11

Outlook will replace the Mail and Calendar app starting January 1st. (Image: Microsoft)

That's it, folks: Starting January 1st, the Mail and Calendar apps will no longer be available on Windows 11. However, this doesn't just affect users who want to reinstall the apps; Microsoft is pulling the plug completely.

This means in plain language:From January 1st, 2025, you will no longer be able to receive or send emails even with apps already installed, and the calendar will also no longer be usable.

EHowever, according to Microsoft, your data is safe, all local emails, contacts and calendar entries should be in theOutlook for Windows appcan be imported. The company explains exactly how this worksBlog post.

You can find out in this article how you can completely remove programs under Windows and why you can simply switch off the swap file in many cases:.

Recommended email programs that can be used free of charge

However, you don't have to despair, because there are alternatives to the Windows apps.

Webmailer:The easiest option would be to use your email provider's web interface. Almost all providers offer an interface whose functionality is in no way inferior to that of a good email program. You also have the advantage that you don't have to set anything up and you can access your email account from any computer with internet access.

Thunderbird:Mozilla's email program is a real classic and continues to be very popular.Thunderbirdscores with a wide range of functions, costs nothing and is also open source.

Thunderbird is the classic email program. (Image: Mozilla Foundation)

Mailbird:AlsoMailbirdThe basic version is free for private users. However, you can only manage one account in the free version. If you want to monitor multiple email accounts, you have to spend at least 4.03 euros per month for the premium version.

The functions do not have to hide from other mail programs. Mailbird stands out simple design.

Mailbird is perhaps the most visually appealing email program. (Image: Mailbird)

eM Client: In the basic version it can alsoeM Clientcan be used free of charge for private use. However, you can only manage two email accounts in this version; if you want more, you have to pay at least 39.95 euros per year. The eM Client impresses with its tidy look and, in addition to a calendar, also offers task management as well as a note and chat function.

The eM Client scores with its modern and minimalist interface. (Image: eM Client)

Outlook for Windows:Microsoft preinstalls the app by default on every new Windows 11 computer and replaces the mail and calendar apps. Visually, the app is based on thiscorrectOutlook, but the features of the free program are not comparable to the paid Outlook version.

Outlook for Windows naturally fits perfectly with the operating system. (Image: Microsoft)

For example, Outlook for Windows akathe new Outlookno self-hosted Exchange servers (On-premise) and various other functions that are negligible for private users.

Write in the comments whether you use your webmail interface directly or use a dedicated email program.