error trying to open new outlook "This app can't open"

Betty Stolwyk 70 Reputation points
2025-02-07T22:14:09.8433333+00:00

In the 'Classic' Outlook desktop client (M365 subscription, running on Windows 11 24H2), I selected the switch "Try the new Outlook". I got the message "Success! Select Switch to use the new Outlook and close the current version. You can switch back anytime." I clicked Switch and nothing happened. I closed the classic Outlook. I then went to my search bar, entered Outlook, and selected the "Outlook (new)" app. This is when I got the "This app can't open" error message.

NewOutlookCantOpenApp

So why won't it open?

Thank you for any help you can give me.

Outlook | Windows | Classic Outlook for Windows | For business
Microsoft 365 and Office | Install, redeem, activate | For business | Windows
Windows for business | Windows Client for IT Pros | User experience | Other
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Accepted answer
  1. Joan Hua-MSFT 5,300 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff
    2025-02-10T02:59:24.3866667+00:00

    Hi @Betty Stolwyk

    Glad to hear this issue has been resolved and thanks for the sharing! 


    However, due to a recent update in forum policy, the question author now is not able to accept their own answers.  

    So, I have written a brief summary of the solution this issue. Please feel free to ACCEPT it as the Answer, which would benefit others who also have similar issues in the forum.  

    Issue: 

     Got the "This app can't open" error message when trying to open New Outlook.

    Solution: 

    Open by going to Press Win+R>entered olk.exe>Run command>This should open the New Outlook, close it and reopen it.

    More information: Problems switching to New Outlook - Microsoft Community 

    1 person found this answer helpful.

2 additional answers

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  1. Diane Poremsky MVP 506 Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator
    2025-02-07T23:21:27.69+00:00

    Based on the icon, it looks like it is not installed. It should be downloaded and installed when you open it (can take a few minutes) or you can open the Windows Store app and search for Outlook to install it.

    When it is installed, the icon is a blue envelope with a white O, similar to the one for classic Outlook.

    Diane Poremsky
    M365 Apps & Services MVP
    https://www.slipstick.com

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  2. Betty Stolwyk 70 Reputation points
    2025-02-08T00:31:01.7466667+00:00

    Found out how to open it from this post https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/outlook_com/forum/all/problems-switching-to-new-outlook/23f37c04-a666-4585-b1a0-fd42c7ffdb27

    Opened a Run command window and entered olk.exe

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