How to Fix Cannot Export Emails from the New Outlook for Mac Interface
Question details
Users are unable to export or archive email messages into data files (.olm or .pst) while using the new Outlook for Mac interface.

- Product
- Outlook for Mac
- Device & OS
- Mac
- Scenario
- Attempting to back up, archive, or export email data using an IMAP or POP account.
- Observed behavior
- The export option is missing or non-functional in the new Outlook interface, whereas it works in classic Outlook. Some Sent messages may also appear in the new interface but fail to display in the classic version.
Ensure all your messages have completely synchronized with your mail server, paying special attention to the Sent folder, before switching between Outlook interfaces to prevent data discrepancies.
Revert to Classic Outlook to Export Data Files
Since the new Outlook for Mac does not currently support exporting .olm and .pst files, switching back to the classic interface is the recommended workaround to access the export tools.
Microsoft is actively developing the import/export capabilities for the new Outlook for Mac. Until this update is officially released, users must rely on the classic interface to archive their emails.
Launch the Outlook application on your Mac device.
Locate the 'New Outlook' toggle switch situated at the top right corner of the Outlook window, or click on the 'Outlook' menu next to the Apple logo.
Turn off the 'New Outlook' switch and confirm the prompt to restart the application in the classic interface.
Once in classic Outlook, navigate to 'File' > 'Export' from the top menu bar to successfully archive your emails into a .olm or .pst file.
Save Important Emails Individually
If you prefer to stay in the new Outlook interface and only need to back up a few specific messages, you can save them locally one by one.
Resolve Inconsistent Sent Items
If you notice that some Sent messages appear in the new interface but are missing in classic Outlook, you should contact Microsoft Support for a synchronization fix.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the export option missing in the new Outlook for Mac?
Microsoft has not yet implemented the import and export functionalities for .olm and .pst data files in the new Outlook for Mac interface. This specific feature is currently under active development.
Will I lose my emails if I switch back to the classic Outlook interface?
No, switching interfaces will not delete your emails. However, it is highly recommended to ensure all your messages have completely synchronized with your mail server before making the switch to avoid temporary display inconsistencies.
How can I request the export feature to be added to the new Outlook?
You can submit your feedback directly to the Microsoft development team. Simply open Outlook, click on 'Help' in the top menu bar, and select 'Suggest a Feature' to request export capabilities.




