01 Dec Unveiling the New Microsoft Teams Client: Discover Enhanced Features, Availability and Auto Updates

Unveiling the New Microsoft Teams Client: Discover Enhanced Features, Availability, and Auto Updates

Welcome to the future of workplace collaboration! The new Microsoft Teams client is here, redefining efficiency and connectivity in the digital workspace. This latest iteration of Teams has been meticulously rebuilt from the ground up, focusing on speed and efficiency to provide you with the fastest version of Teams yet. You may read our previous blogpost. Let’s dive into the myriad of features that make this update not just an iteration but a transformation.

Automatic Update to New Teams

Microsoft initially communicated that users of classic Teams would be automatically upgraded to the new Teams in the forthcoming months. Recently, Microsoft has specified that this automatic update will occur after March 31, 2024. If you haven’t transitioned to the new Teams by this date, the update will be applied automatically.

Why Make the Switch?

• Enhanced Performance: The new Teams is designed to be up to twice as fast and uses 50% less memory.
• User Experience: The transition to new Teams is smooth, with no significant changes that would require additional user training.
• Continued Service: You can continue using classic Teams without interruption until March 31, 2024.

Preparing for the Update

• Admin Control: Admins can prepare for this transition by utilizing IT admin policies and deployment options, such as office update channels, to manage the update process within their organizations.
• Update Policy Adjustment: For admins who have the Teams update policy set to ‘Not enabled’ for the ‘Use new Teams client’ setting, we recommend changing this to ‘New Teams only’ after switching the Teams update policy to ‘Microsoft controlled’ in the Teams admin center.

Important Notes:

• General Availability: Microsoft has announced that as of November 30, 2023, the new Teams will be available for all Windows and Mac users, as detailed in our message center post-MC679451
• Exclusive Features: Moving forward, all new features and enhancements to Microsoft Teams will be exclusive to the new version.
• Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) Public Preview: The new Teams is not yet generally available in the VDI environment, so VDI users will not be part of the auto-update scheduled for March 31, 2024.
• Microsoft Teams Rooms (MTR) and Surface Hub: These devices are also exempt from the automatic update deadline.
• Education Sector: The option to update to new Teams is currently available for education users, and they can transition smoothly at any time. For more information, please visit our dedicated page.

What’s New in New Teams?

Embrace the Future of Collaboration

The new Microsoft Teams is more than just an update; it’s a leap forward in collaborative technology. We encourage you to switch to the new Teams and experience the difference in speed, simplicity, and flexibility. Get ready to elevate your teamwork to new heights with the latest and greatest Microsoft Teams offers.

Enhanced Performance: A Smoother, Faster Experience

The new Teams app is a game-changer in terms of performance. It’s been re-engineered from scratch to be twice as fast, ensuring that your workflow is smoother and more responsive. This speed boost is coupled with reduced CPU usage, meaning your computer can breathe easier, even during those heavy multitasking sessions.

Key Takeaways:

• Twice as Fast: Noticeably quicker in every interaction.
• Reduced CPU Load: Less strain on your computer’s resources.

Streamlined Channel Management

Managing private and shared channels is now more intuitive. With a simple right-click, team and channel owners can effortlessly adjust settings and memberships, streamlining the administrative process.

• Key Takeaways: Easier Channel Management: Directly manage channels with fewer clicks.

Enhanced Meeting Features

The new Teams brings a suite of improvements to meetings:

• Dial-in Participant Recording: Record meetings even with phone participants.
• External Participant Identification: Easily spot guests or external members in a conversation.
• Improved Microphone Sensitivity: Automatic adjustments for clearer audio.
• Noise Suppression: Say goodbye to unwanted background noise.
• Meeting Reminders for Audio Issues: Avoid feedback loops in shared spaces.
• Key Takeaways: Better Audio Control: Enhanced voice clarity and reduced distractions.

Personalized Experience

• Custom Meeting Backgrounds: Personalize your virtual space.
• Presence Duration: Set your availability for a specific period.
• Unified Contact Management: All your contacts in one place.
• Meeting Avatars: Represent yourself with a custom avatar.
• Key Takeaways: Customization: Tailor Teams to your personal style and workflow.

Notification and Presence Management

• In-App Notification Settings: Fine-tune what alerts you receive.
• Reliable Presence Updates: Your status accurately reflects your availability.
• Taskbar Status View: Quick glance at your Teams status.
• Key Takeaways: Controlled Alerts: Stay informed without being overwhelmed.

Organizational Tools

• Org Chart Access: Quick view of the company hierarchy.
• Classic Teams Theme: Nostalgic? Switch back to the classic look.
• Multi-Device Call Notifications: Never miss a call, no matter the device.
• Key Takeaways: Organizational Clarity: Understand team structures at a glance.

Search and Speed Dial

• Focused Search: Use Ctrl+F for channel-specific searches.
• Speed Dial: Quick access to your most important contacts.
• Key Takeaways: Efficient Communication: Reach people faster with streamlined tools.

Presentation and Integration

• Enhanced Presenter Toolbar: A more intuitive presentation experience.
• App Integration: Bring your favorite apps into Teams.
• Key Takeaways: Seamless Presentations: Effortlessly manage and deliver content.

Team Templates and Notifications

• Ready-Made Team Structures: Jumpstart your team setup.
• Smart Notification Management: Mute non-essential alerts automatically.
• Key Takeaways: Streamlined Team Creation: Get started with optimal structures.

Account Management and Privacy

• Easy Account Switching: Navigate between multiple accounts seamlessly.
• Private Channel Management: Full control over private channel memberships.
• Key Takeaways: Enhanced Privacy Controls: Manage your digital workspace effectively.

Meeting Tools and Accessibility

• Whiteboard Sharing: Collaborate visually in real-time.
• Meeting Transcription: Keep a record of your discussions.
• Device Management: Tailor your audio and video settings.
• Attendance Tracking: Keep tabs on meeting participation.
• Key Takeaways: Accessible Collaboration: Tools to enhance meeting engagement.

The new Microsoft Teams client is more than just an update; it’s a comprehensive overhaul designed to make your work life easier, more productive, and more connected. Whether it’s through enhanced performance, streamlined management, or personalized experiences, Teams is set to revolutionize how we collaborate in the digital age.

Have you tried the new Teams client yet? Share your experiences and favorite features in the comments below!