There are two ways to get Outlook email on an iPhone: install the free Outlook app from the App Store and sign in, or add the account to the built-in Mail app in Settings > Apps > Mail > Mail Accounts > Add Account (on iOS 17 and earlier, Settings > Mail > Accounts). Work or school accounts may require the Outlook app because of your organisation’s security rules.
Quick Answer
Install Outlook from the App Store and sign in. Or Settings > Apps > Mail > Mail Accounts > Add Account > choose your account type > sign in > Save.
Method 1: The Outlook App
- Open the App Store, search for Microsoft Outlook and install it.
- Open Outlook and tap Add Account.
- Enter your email address and sign in. Complete any two-step verification.
- Allow notifications if you want new-mail alerts.
Method 2: The iPhone Mail App
- Open Settings > Apps > Mail > Mail Accounts (older iOS: Settings > Mail > Accounts).
- Tap Add Account.
- Choose the type: the Outlook.com option for personal accounts, or Microsoft Exchange for work and school.
- Sign in and choose what to sync: Mail, Contacts, Calendars, Reminders.
- Tap Save.
Which to Choose
| Option | Best for |
|---|---|
| Outlook app | Focused Inbox, work accounts, calendar and files in one app |
| iPhone Mail | Keeping all accounts in the built-in app |
Troubleshooting
- “Cannot verify account”: Check the password by signing in on the web. If you use two-step sign-in with an older setup, you may need an app password.
- Work account blocked in Mail: Your organisation may require the Outlook app. Use Method 1.
- Calendar not showing: Turn on Calendars for the account in Mail Accounts. See syncing an Outlook calendar.
- Older Hotmail address? See syncing Hotmail on iPhone. On a PC, see setting up email on Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Outlook app free?
Yes. Some features need a Microsoft 365 subscription.
Can I use both methods?
Yes, but you’ll get duplicate notifications. Turn alerts off in one app.
How do I remove the account?
In Mail Accounts, tap the account and choose Delete Account. In Outlook, go to Settings, tap the account and choose Delete Account.
Summary
- Install the Outlook app and sign in, or
- Add the account in Settings > Apps > Mail > Mail Accounts.
- Choose what to sync and save.
- Use the Outlook app for work accounts if Mail is blocked.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.