CPU Usage Spikes While Composing Emails in Outlook

Users of Microsoft Outlook are currently experiencing significant performance issues while composing emails, with CPU usage spiking between 30 to 50 percent. This unexpected behavior has raised concerns among those relying on the application for their email communication.

The problem appears to be linked to an update, specifically version 2406 Build 17726.20126+, affecting the traditional Outlook application on Windows. As a result, users are also noticing an increase in power consumption as their devices struggle to manage the workload.

Despite the issue becoming apparent to users as early as November 2024, Microsoft has only recently acknowledged it. The company is currently investigating the underlying causes of the high CPU usage, although no technical details have been provided thus far. In the meantime, a suggested workaround for affected users involves switching their updates to the Semi-Annual Channel, which may help mitigate the immediate problem.

Microsoft has officially endorsed this workaround while promising to address the core issue as quickly as possible. Once resolved, users will have the option to revert to their preferred update channels.

There are growing concerns about the future of the traditional Outlook application, especially with Microsoft advocating for a transition to the new Outlook, which relies on a web-based platform. This shift has elicited mixed reactions among users due to privacy concerns and the absence of certain features. Questions linger about whether a new version of MS Office will be released or if future updates will mandate a switch to Microsoft 365.

The company has indicated that business customers should transition to the new Outlook by 2026. However, many users remain skeptical about Microsoft's commitment to resolving current issues with the traditional version and are questioning the availability of development resources to address these problems.