Last Updated on 15 July 2025 by Maelle
Hotmail, Microsoft’s email service, has been replaced by Outlook.com. This decision has raised many questions among users. In this article, we will explore the reasons why Outlook.com replaced Hotmail, highlighting the benefits and new features offered by this new email service.
The Transition from Hotmail to Outlook.com
The Transformation from Hotmail to Outlook.com
One of the first things to note is the transition from Hotmail to Outlook.com. Microsoft chose to revamp the interface and layout of its email service to offer users a more modern and user-friendly experience. This transformation has allowed Outlook.com to stand out and position itself as an attractive alternative to Hotmail.
The Benefits of Outlook.com
Outlook.com offers many advanced features that enhance the user experience. One of the most notable benefits is the ability to use other website services such as Facebook, Twitter, Skype, etc. directly from the Outlook.com interface. Users can view their friends’ social media posts and photos without leaving their inbox. Additionally, the new Outlook.com layout is better suited for tablets and smartphones, allowing users to stay connected wherever they are.
Improved email organization
A more user-friendly layout
Outlook.com offers a more user-friendly layout that makes it easier for users to navigate. This new interface makes it easier to manage emails by categorizing them by type, for example, by only showing social media notifications. Users can also schedule cleanups to clear their inboxes without over-cleaning.
Service Integration
Outlook.com integrates contact information scattered across users’ various services. This brings all important information together in one place, making contact management easier.
The Benefits of Skydrive Storage
File and Photo Sharing
Outlook.com offers all the benefits of Skydrive storage. Users can easily share files and photos with their contacts, facilitating collaboration and information sharing. Collaborating on Office Documents
Outlook.com also allows you to collaborate on Office documents. Users can share Word, Excel, and PowerPoint documents with others and collaborate in real time, facilitating productivity and collaboration.
Steps to Switch from Hotmail to Outlook.com
Step 1: Sign in to your Hotmail account
To begin, sign in to your Hotmail account using your usual credentials. Make sure you have access to your inbox and all your emails.
Step 2: Access Account Options
Once signed in, locate the “Options” section in the top right corner of the interface. Click it to access your account settings.
Step 3: Upgrade to Outlook.com
In the Options section, you will see an option titled “Upgrade to Outlook.” Click this option to begin the migration process to Outlook.com.
Step 4: Upgrade Confirmation
A confirmation window will appear asking you to confirm your choice to switch to Outlook.com. Click “Confirm” to complete the upgrade.
Step 5: Access your Outlook.com account
After confirmation, you will be redirected to your Outlook.com email account with the new interface and improved features. Your contacts and emails will be automatically transferred to your new account.
Why Outlook.com replaced Hotmail
Step 1: Access Email Settings
If you want to create a new Outlook.com address while keeping your existing Hotmail address, go to the “Other Email Settings” section in your account options. Step 2: Select “Create an Outlook alias”
In the Email Settings section, locate and click the “Create an Outlook alias” option. This will allow you to create a new email address ending in outlook.com. Step 3: Choose your username and preferences Follow the instructions to choose your new Outlook.com username and configure your email receiving preferences. You can choose to receive messages addressed to both your usernames in a single location, or organize them in separate folders.
Step 4: Personalize your Outlook.com account
In this same section, you can also personalize your Outlook.com account. You can configure automatic out-of-office replies, set up email forwarding, write a personalized signature, and adjust your display preferences.
Outlook.com replaced Hotmail by offering users a more user-friendly interface and advanced features. This transition brought multiple services together in one place, making email and contact management easier. Additionally, Outlook.com offers the benefits of Skydrive storage, allowing file sharing and collaboration on Office documents. The transition from Hotmail to Outlook.com was a strategic decision by Microsoft to provide users with a more modern and comprehensive email experience.
