Microsoft is retiring an AI-powered feature in Outlook that allowed users to personalize their email app with themes generated by Copilot. The change is expected to roll out worldwide from mid-October to late October 2026, according to a Microsoft 365 Message Center notice..The feature, called Themes by Copilot, allowed eligible users to customize Outlook’s appearance using AI-generated designs. Users could create themes based on their preferences and interests, making their inbox look different from the standard interface..
What Is Changing in Outlook?
Microsoft is removing Themes by Copilot from the Settings menu. Once the change reaches a user’s account, they will no longer be able to select a Copilot theme again after switching to another theme..Users who already have a Copilot theme applied can continue using it for now. However, themes set to refresh automatically will stop refreshing, and users who switch away from their existing AI theme will not be able to return to it..The retirement affects the new Outlook for Windows, Outlook for Android, Outlook for iOS, Outlook for Mac and Outlook on the web..
Will Outlook Stop Working Without AI Themes?
No. This change concerns the AI-generated theme feature, not Outlook’s core email service. Users can continue using Outlook to send and receive emails and manage their inboxes..Traditional, non-Copilot themes will remain available. Users who prefer a different appearance can select one of the regular themes through Outlook’s appearance settings..Microsoft’s notice also says users do not need to take any action for the retirement to happen..
Why Is Microsoft Removing the Feature?
The retirement comes as Microsoft continues to adjust its Copilot offerings and focus on AI features it considers more useful. However, the available retirement notice does not provide a specific reason for discontinuing Outlook’s AI themes, so it would be inaccurate to claim that the company removed the feature because it failed or was unpopular..The development highlights an important point about AI tools: companies can introduce new features, change them or discontinue them as their products evolve..
What Should Outlook Users Do?
If you currently use a Copilot-generated theme and want to keep its appearance, avoid switching away from it until you are comfortable losing access to that theme. If you do not use AI themes, you do not need to do anything.For users who simply want to personalize their inbox, Outlook’s regular themes remain an alternative..
