Microsoft Launches Outlook.com Webmail Service

On 31/07/2012, Microsoft launched the public preview of Outlook.com, a new webmail service designed to eventually replace Hotmail. The service introduced a redesigned interface inspired by Microsoft’s Metro-style design language and focused on simplifying email management while integrating cloud services and social networks. Microsoft positioned Outlook.com as a competitor to Gmail, emphasizing a cleaner layout and reduced advertising within personal conversations. The Outlook.com interface was built from the ground up, featuring a streamlined header and a layout that displayed more messages in the inbox. Microsoft also added social integration, allowing users to connect accounts from Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to view updates and photos directly alongside emails. The preview included built-in access to SkyDrive, later renamed OneDrive, and Office Web Apps, enabling users to open and edit documents from within the email interface. Existing Hotmail and Live.com users were offered the option to upgrade while keeping their email addresses, folders, and contacts. Microsoft reported strong early adoption following the launch, stating that more than one million users signed up within the first 24 hours of the preview. The July 2012 release marked the beginning of Microsoft’s transition from Hotmail to Outlook.com, with gradual migration of existing accounts over the following months.