(Updated) Outlook for iOS and Android: Automatically apply email sensitivity labels from labeled attachments

Updated October 7, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience. 

[What and Why:]

We're introducing support for Microsoft Purview sensitivity label inheritance from attachments in Outlook for iOS and Android. When users attach files that have Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels applied, Outlook can automatically apply or recommend an email sensitivity label based on your organization's configured labeling policies.

This enhancement helps organizations maintain consistent data classification and protection, reduces manual labeling effort for users, and supports compliance objectives across Outlook clients.

[Rollout Schedule:]

• General Availability (Worldwide, GCC, GCC High, DoD): Mid-November 2026 (previously late September)

[Impact on Your Organization:]

Who is affected

• Organizations using Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels.
• Users of Outlook for iOS and Android.

Platforms/Services

• Outlook for iOS
• Outlook for Android
• Microsoft Purview Information Protection

What will happen

• When a user attaches one or more files that have sensitivity labels applied, Outlook may automatically apply or recommend an email sensitivity label.
• The applied or recommended label is determined by your organization's Microsoft Purview sensitivity labeling policies.
• This behavior helps align email classification with the classification of attached content.
• Users may experience fewer manual labeling steps when composing messages that contain labeled content.
• Organizations can benefit from more consistent application of information protection policies across mobile Outlook clients.

[Action Required / Recommendations:]

No admin action is required.

Organizations currently using Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels should:

• Review existing label publishing policies.
• Review sensitivity label inheritance and protection configurations.
• Validate that attachment-based label inheritance aligns with compliance, regulatory, and information protection requirements.
• Update internal user guidance if your organization provides sensitivity labeling training or documentation.

[Compliance Considerations:]

For organizations already using Microsoft Purview sensitivity labels, this change helps improve consistency in classification and protection while reducing the risk of emails being sent with a lower sensitivity level than their attachments.