Apple is preparing a fix for Exchange access across several Mac apps as Microsoft retires Exchange Web Services. The change can disrupt work and school accounts that use Microsoft’s Exchange Online service.
Affected apps include Mail, Calendar, Contacts, Notes and Reminders. Meanwhile, Microsoft offers administrators temporary options as Apple works on a permanent solution.
Exchange Changes Disrupt Mac Mail
The problem centers on Exchange Online, Microsoft’s cloud platform for workplace and school accounts. Apple’s Mac apps currently connect to the service through Exchange Web Services, commonly known as EWS.
Microsoft began disabling EWS in October 2026. Consequently, organizations that rely on this connection may experience problems depending on their configurations.
Old Dominion University has already warned users about difficulties accessing university email through Apple’s built-in Mail app. Its IT notice recommends switching to Outlook on Mac while the issue continues.
However, Microsoft gives administrators some breathing room. Organizations can temporarily keep approved applications connected before the company completely shuts down EWS in April 2027.
iPhone and iPad Users Remain Unaffected
The disruption specifically affects Apple’s Mac apps. In contrast, iPhones and iPads use Exchange ActiveSync rather than EWS.
Therefore, Microsoft’s EWS shutdown does not affect Exchange connections on those devices. The university notice also confirms that its iPhone and iPad users remain unaffected.
That distinction should reassure users who access the same workplace or school account across several Apple devices.
macOS 27 Update Will Bring a Permanent Fix
Apple plans to address the problem through a future macOS 27 update. The company says the update will move all five affected Mac apps to Microsoft’s replacement connection method.
However, Apple has not announced when that software update will arrive.
Until then, affected Mac users may need to follow guidance from their organization’s IT department. Some administrators can temporarily maintain EWS access, while others may recommend Microsoft Outlook.
