Microsoft Teams Web Comes With New Features And Background Effects

Users of the web version of Microsoft Teams benefit from various background effects for video conferences that were previously reserved for the desktop client of the communication tool. The new functions are expected in the course of September.

The Redmond-based company has confirmed within its Office 365 roadmap the work on background effects for Microsoft Teams “on the web”, which is available as an alternative to the classic desktop app. The work started just a few days ago, but the developers seem to be moving quickly, which is why an update is due for the next month.

Microsoft’s implementation

“If you’re using Teams on the web, you can either blur the background or replace it entirely with the images provided in the video conference or call. Note: Blurring or replacing the background may not prevent sensitive information from being shared with others in the Call or meeting are visible.”

Since Microsoft is already working on a “Teams 2.0” version based on Chromium Edge WebView 2, it seems long overdue to bring the web version of the popular tool to the same level as the desktop app. The aim should be to create a uniform basis by the time Windows 11 is released. A first preview of the new version of Microsoft Teams was given by an insider preview leaked a few weeks ago, which, in addition to lower system requirements and faster loading times, still missed some functions.

In the last few days, Microsoft has also confirmed new options for transferring team calls to smartphones, including recording meetings and protection against phishing links.