How do I prevent New Outlook from closing the folder pane on vertical monitors?

Question

Hello

New Outlook hides the folder pane when it's maximized on vertical monitors. There is no pin option to keep it open, and it keeps disappearing even when I restart the application. I have to use Classic Outlook instead. How do I fix this? We have a number of users complaining about this issue.

We've already tried outlook.exe /resetnavpane to no avail.

Thank you!

Answer 1

Hi @Annemarie Finn, 

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum.  

Based on my research, when the window width is too narrow (which happens on portrait monitors), New Outlook automatically hides the Folder Pane to prioritize the message list and reading pane. This is by design, and currently there’s no permanent pin option in New Outlook for this scenario.  

I’ve also come across feedback from other users who have reported similar frustrations. You can find one such discussion here:  Keeping the folder pane visible on portrait monitor. (New Outlook) - Microsoft Q&A 

I completely understand that the Folder Pane in Outlook not staying open when using a vertical monitor can be a bit limiting, especially for users who rely on quick access to their folders for efficient navigation and multitasking. If the pane could remain visible and not automatically collapse, it would help streamline navigation, reduce extra steps, and support a smoother, more efficient workflow. 

As a forum moderator, I hope you understand that I don’t have the ability to modify or escalate product issues directly. However, I strongly recommend submitting your feedback through the Outlook (new) · Community portal. This is the most effective way to ensure your voice reaches the product team and can be considered for future improvements. 

Once you've submitted your feedback, feel free to share the link here in the comments. I’ll be happy to upvote it to help bring more visibility. 

Additionally, since many other users have expressed similar concerns but may not know where to submit feedback, if my response has helped you better understand the situation and guided you toward a possible next step, please mark it as the “Accepted Answer.” Your action will help pin this post to the top, making it easier for others in the community who are experiencing the same issue to find your feedback and support it. 

Thank you again for your time and for raising this important usability concern.

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