Microsoft has recently announced the overhaul of its Zoom competitor, the Microsoft Teams app for Windows. The company has made significant changes to the app's interface, making it leaner and sleeker.
Although the revamped version of the Teams app is not yet available for all users, it is expected to bring a host of new features that will enhance collaboration and communication among team members. Some of these features include improved video conferencing capabilities with support for up to 49 participants on a single screen.
Additionally, Microsoft has added a new feature called Together mode that places participants in a virtual space such as an auditorium or coffee shop to simulate real-life meetings. This feature aims to reduce fatigue during extended video calls and create a more engaging experience for remote teams.
The redesigned interface also promises easier navigation through channels and chats with improved search capabilities. Users can now easily access their files from OneDrive or SharePoint directly within the Teams app.
In an official statement released by Jared Spataro, Corporate Vice President at Microsoft 365:
"We want our customers to have seamless collaboration experiences when using our products. With this latest update, we are confident that Teams will be able to provide better communication solutions while keeping users engaged."
The revamp comes at a time when many companies are shifting towards remote work due to social distancing measures caused by COVID-19 pandemic. The updated version of Teams intends to enable employees working remotely feel connected and part of their team even if they're miles apart.
While there is no specific date given on when this updated version will be launched globally; however according sources close with Microsoft suggest it should happen sooner than later.
Overall, this recent update confirms that Microsoft continues its efforts in developing innovative tools aimed at improving remote collaboration during these unprecedented times where work from home culture becomes more prominent across industries worldwide.