Microsoft is officially retiring Teams’ Together Mode, a feature that placed meeting participants in a shared virtual background like a coffee shop or auditorium. The company is shifting its focus to improving video quality and performance instead of gimmicks. This change reflects Microsoft’s commitment to making Teams more reliable and efficient for daily use.
Why Is Microsoft Removing Together Mode?
Together Mode was introduced during the pandemic to make virtual meetings feel more social. However, Microsoft found that users preferred better video clarity and smoother performance over virtual backgrounds. By removing this feature, the company can allocate resources to core improvements.
Key Reasons for the Change
- Better video quality: Microsoft will enhance resolution, reduce lag, and improve low-light performance.
- Faster performance: Removing Together Mode frees up processing power for smoother calls.
- User feedback: Many users reported that Together Mode was distracting or unnecessary for work meetings.
What Does This Mean for Teams Users?
If you used Together Mode for fun team events or brainstorming sessions, you may miss it. But the trade-off is a faster, more reliable Teams experience. Microsoft is also investing in other features like noise suppression, background blur, and AI-powered meeting recaps.
Alternatives to Together Mode
You can still use custom backgrounds or background blur to hide your space. For creative meetings, try Microsoft Whiteboard or Breakout Rooms to keep engagement high.
When Will This Change Happen?
Microsoft plans to phase out Together Mode gradually. It will remain available for some users until late 2024, then be removed completely. Check your Teams update notes for exact dates.
How to Prepare for the Change
- Update your Teams app regularly to get the latest performance improvements.
- Test alternative features like background blur or custom backgrounds.
- Provide feedback to Microsoft about what features you value most.
Microsoft’s decision to retire Teams Together Mode shows a clear shift toward practical, performance-driven updates. While some users may miss the fun virtual settings, most will benefit from sharper video, faster load times, and fewer glitches. This change helps Teams stay competitive with tools like Zoom and Google Meet, which also prioritize reliability over flashy extras.
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