Microsoft's long-running email service gets a revamp
Outlook.com is a free, web-based email service from Microsoft.
Overview
Formerly known as Windows Live Hotmail, Outlook.com is not only free but other offers "unlimited" space, alongside integration with SkyDrive.
New interface
Outlook.com has a completely new interface from the old Hotmail. Much like Google's popular web-based service Gmail, Outlook.com's important folders are located on the left of your screen. Everything from documents, flagged emails, photos and shipping updates are located under the "Quick views" main folder. The more traditional and expected folders for your inbox, junk mail, drafts, and sent messages are also situated to the left.
At the top of your Outlook.com screen is a dynamic tool bar that will change depending on the content you're currently viewing. Chat is also integrated with your Microsoft Live and Facebook contacts, making it a convenient way to keep in touch with friends and family while simultaneously accessing your email.
Unfortunately, there are no right click options in a few places, notably the People and Calendar sections, which might present frustrations for some users.
Conclusion
Overall, Outlook.com is a great improvement on Hotmail's outdated interface. It's still playing catch-up to Gmail though in a lot of different ways. While the chat integration and easy to use contact management system are huge pluses, it's unlikely to sway hardcore Gmail users away from a service that offers a great Priory Inbox, and integration with Google Plus, as well as a myriad of other Google services.
Outlook.com is a vastly improved upgrade to a popular web-based email service that most former Hotmail users will undoubtedly appreciate.
