Classic Microsoft Teams client retires, making way for enhanced collaboration with new app in Microsoft 365

Microsoft has announced a significant transition that will affect users of its popular collaboration platform, Microsoft Teams. The classic Teams client, a staple in many organizations, will reach the end of its availability after March 31, 2024. This change heralds the arrival of a new Teams client, promising a host of updated features and improved performance.

Microsoft Teams transition timeline

Microsoft has outlined a phased rollout strategy for the new Teams client, which will automatically replace the classic version on users’ systems. The process will vary depending on the policies set by Teams administrators, but the general timeline indicates that the classic client will be uninstalled 14 days after the new Teams client is installed.

It’s important to note that this timeline does not apply to Government Community Cloud (GCC), GCC High, and Department of Defense (DoD) environments, which will be covered in a separate section. Additionally, users signed into Teams for Life or both Teams for Life and Teams for Work on Windows 10 will not be affected by the current unavailability dates.

What to expect from the new Teams client

The new Microsoft Teams client is designed to enhance the user experience with several feature updates and performance improvements. While specific details on the changes are yet to be fully disclosed, users can anticipate a more streamlined and efficient collaboration environment. Microsoft encourages users to review the “Features that are changing in the new Microsoft Teams” section for more information.

Preparing for the change

For organizations that have not yet transitioned, Microsoft will attempt to remove the classic Teams client automatically. However, if certain configurations or policies block this process, it will be the administrators’ responsibility to manually uninstall the classic client. Microsoft provides uninstallation documentation to assist with this process.

The end of classic Teams

Users who still require the classic Teams client can continue to use it until June 30, 2024, provided they meet specific conditions outlined by Microsoft. Until then, a banner will remain at the top of the classic client, reminding users of the impending change.

Embracing the future of teamwork

The retirement of the classic Teams client marks the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in Microsoft’s commitment to fostering effective teamwork and communication. As organizations worldwide adapt to the new Teams client, they can look forward to a more robust and feature-rich platform that will continue to support their collaborative efforts in an ever-changing digital landscape.

For more detailed information on the transition and how it may affect your organization, visit the official Microsoft Teams documentation page on the end of availability for the classic Teams client.

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