Microsoft 365 improvements coming to UC this summer

Microsoft 365 improvements coming to UC this summer

Updates will enhance email organization and external file sharing

Microsoft is introducing a few small updates to improve your email experience and how files are shared externally. These changes are automatic, expected to have minimal impact, and require no immediate action for most University of Cincinnati students, faculty and staff.

Promotional email tagging

Microsoft will begin tagging certain emails (such as newsletters and promotions) to help you organize your inbox more easily.

• What to expect:
  • These emails will appear with a "Promotions" label in your inbox.
  • You can create Outlook rules to manage them if desired.
  • The system improves over time based on your preferences.
• Timeline: July 2026
• Action needed: None
• More information: View knowledge base article.

External File Sharing Updates

Microsoft is updating how external file sharing works in OneDrive and SharePoint to improve security and consistency.

• What's changing: New sharing will use Microsoft's secure guest access system.
• Timeline:
  • New sharing experience: Rolling out now (June 2026).
  • Previous method phased out: July-August 2026.
• What this means:
  • Most sharing will continue as it does today.
  • In some cases, older sharing links may no longer work after the transition.
  • If access issues occur, simply re-share the file or folder to restore access.
• Optional (for frequent external sharing): If you regularly share files externally, consider re-sharing important content this summer.
• More information: View knowledge base article.

Need help?

If you have any questions or experience any issues following this changes, please contact the IT Service Desk.

• Submit a ticket: uc.edu/ithelp.
• Or call us:
  • From a personal phone: 513-556-HELP (4357), select option 2.
  • From a university phone: 6-HELP (4357), select option 2.

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