Home Microsoft Updates Hotmail: Faster Interface and More Storage

Microsoft Updates Hotmail: Faster Interface and More Storage

Microsoft is slowly releasing a new version Windows Live Hotmail this week, though, as LiveSide.net reports, many users are having problems with the new design and want Microsoft to revert back to the old layout. We have been looking at the new version of Hotmail for most of the morning and have not seen any problems with it so far. The new layout will take some getting used to, but overall, it is simpler and faster than the old Hotmail and Microsoft has significantly increased the storage limit.

The new version of Hotmail is being rolled out slowly and most users at not able to access it just yet. It is important to note that you can choose if you want to try the new interface and that you can switch back to the classic version at any time. We tested the new version in both Internet Explorer and Firefox and it worked just as advertised.

New Look

The new look is a lot cleaner than the old Hotmail, with a lot of white space. Microsoft refers to it as being “more like a repainted room than a remodeled house.” As with the old version, you can choose between different layouts and themes. According to Microsoft, this new version is also 70% faster for users on broadband connections and 54% faster for those still using dial-up connections. While we did not do any scientific tests, the new design does indeed feel a lot faster than the old Hotmail.

Storage Space Grows as Needed

This new version also now includes significantly more storage space (5GB to start and then 500MB more per month every time you hit the limit). Microsoft is also integrating more Live Messenger functions into this new version. While it is not quite Gmail Chat yet, you can already change your presence in Hotmail. Over time, Microsoft is planning to add more features to this.

Overall, we really liked this new version of Hotmail. It does not (yet?) include a lot of new functionality, but it does give Microsoft a very well designed scaffold to use once it decides to add more functions in the future.

About ReadWrite’s Editorial Process

The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the tech industry for major developments, new product launches, AI breakthroughs, video game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to staff writers or freelance contributors with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.

Get the biggest tech headlines of the day delivered to your inbox

    By signing up, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy. Unsubscribe anytime.

    Tech News

    Explore the latest in tech with our Tech News. We cut through the noise for concise, relevant updates, keeping you informed about the rapidly evolving tech landscape with curated content that separates signal from noise.

    In-Depth Tech Stories

    Explore tech impact in In-Depth Stories. Narrative data journalism offers comprehensive analyses, revealing stories behind data. Understand industry trends for a deeper perspective on tech's intricate relationships with society.

    Expert Reviews

    Empower decisions with Expert Reviews, merging industry expertise and insightful analysis. Delve into tech intricacies, get the best deals, and stay ahead with our trustworthy guide to navigating the ever-changing tech market.