In a significant move toward modernizing its visual identity, Microsoft has announced plans to potentially replace the icons for Outlook and several other core applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. These changes come as the technology giant seeks to refresh its branding, which has remained largely unchanged since the last redesign in 2018.

The initiative was first revealed through a survey invitation sent via email, which was later shared by a reader. In this email, Microsoft expressed its commitment to enhancing user experiences, stating, "At Microsoft, we're always striving to improve our products and create a user experience that truly resonates with you. Today, we're excited to invite you to participate in a brief 15-minute survey that will help us better understand your preferences and opinions about our exploration of different iconography designs for Microsoft 365." As an incentive to participate, respondents will receive a $10 gift card.

A recent post on Reddit by user jbgski showcased a selection of the proposed new icons, highlighting their more three-dimensional appearance. The new designs are characterized by increased visual depth compared to the current flat icons that have dominated the design landscape in recent years.

Despite the popularity of flat design, the new icons seem to incorporate a more expressive and lively aesthetic. Its worth noting that while Microsoft had only recently updated its Office icons, over six years have passed since that last major change. Prior to the 2018 update, the icons had remained constant for a substantial five years.

In the opinion of some users, the new icons represent a positive step forward. They not only offer increased depth but also demonstrate greater differentiation between the various apps. For instance, the current icons for Word and Excel often appear too similar, primarily differing only by color palette. The upcoming designs promise to establish a clearer distinction between these essential productivity tools.

Interestingly, none of the new icons appear to be taking the place of the recently introduced Copilot logo, which has been the subject of both jokes and criticism within the community. The Microsoft 365 logo was revamped not long ago, indicating an ongoing evolution in the companys branding strategy.

The applications set to receive icon updates are some of Microsofts most recognizable products. As such, a shift away from established branding could feel peculiar to longtime users. However, it appears that Microsoft aims to harmonize the familiar aspects of each app's visual identity with modern design elements, ensuring that the essence of each application remains intact while embracing contemporary aesthetics.

As Microsoft moves forward with these prospective changes, the feedback gathered from the survey participants will likely play a crucial role in shaping the final designs. The companys willingness to solicit user opinions reflects a growing trend in the industry, where user experience and satisfaction are prioritized in the design process.