Did you spot the ‘What’s New in Microsoft Teams’ blog from January? There was a lot to take in, with Microsoft detailing no fewer than 33 brand new features for its collaboration platform.
Here are our three favourites.
Mesh in Microsoft Teams
In a bid to make virtual meetings more like face-to-face ones Microsoft has created Mesh, which uses next-generation technology to transform Teams meetings into 3D immersive experiences.
All the regular meeting features are included (reactions, screen shares, chat etc.) but are delivered in a virtual environment. Gone are the tiles of faces, replaced with digital avatars and immersive spaces. It also uses Spatial Audio and zones that allow smaller groups to have conversations among themselves without drowning others out.
Intelligent recap included with Copilot for Microsoft 365 license
AI is leading the charge for new features and functions, especially at Microsoft following the launch of its Copilot assistant. This trend is showing no signs of slowing down, with AI technology at the forefront of a feature that provides automated recaps after a meeting to detail what was covered.
What’s more, with timeline markers for when people joined or a screen was shared, it’s quick and easy to go back over something manually to double check the automation got things correct.
Improved audio and video controls
A small but very welcome change has seen Microsoft make it more straightforward to adjust video or audio settings from within a call or meeting. New features are located within the ‘flyout’ (i.e. from the drop-down menu of ‘Mic’ or ‘Camera’ from the meeting screen).
For audio adjustments, simply open the ‘Mic’ flyout to be presented with a whole set of new options, be it changing between built-in and wired speakers or microphones, or for toggling the switches that control noise suppression and spatial audio.
For video, meeting participants can now change their background, use avatars or even adjust soft focus, all from within the ‘Camera’ flyout whilst a meeting is ongoing. Announcing this new suite of 33 features, Microsoft’s Steven Stein said: “These updates will help you collaborate more effectively, streamline workflows, and stay connected with your team… there is something for everyone.”
