M365 Changelog: Global Address List updates in New Outlook for Windows and Outlook on the Web

MC700934 – Microsoft is making some adjustments to the GAL search and browse experiences in New Outlook and Outlook on the web. Users will be asked to type in more characters to refine their search in some cases.

This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 185475

When this will happen:

Standard Release: This is currently rolling out and expected to complete it within the next few months.

How this will affect your organization:

Users will be asked to type in more characters to refine their search in some cases. There will be some other visual improvements in error messaging. Another way to find recipients is by using the suggestion dropdown picker in the To/Cc/Bcc lines. Microsoft will continue our investments in the latter for both New Outlook and Outlook on the Web. 

What you need to do to prepare:

Microsoft recommends you start communicating the change to users across your organization. Microsoft will publish content support on the changes for all users to better understand what is changing.