Microsoft launches new updates for Teams and Outlook to target hybrid workers

Microsoft has recently announced a whole host of new features for both Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Outlook specifically designed to help businesses to adapt to the hybrid way of working. The latest update for Microsoft Outlook will provide users with the ability to be able to state whether they are at home or in the office. Whereas the latest update for Teams will help to give those working remotely the illusion that they are physically in a meeting. 

It goes without saying but the way in which we work has changed dramatically over the course of the last two years with many businesses having to make the switch to remote working at a rapid pace as a result of the Coronavirus. Fast forward to now and more and more businesses have looked at adopt a hybrid way of working so people can switch between working from home and coming into the office. This means that all the tools required to do this need to evolve as well. 

What is changing for Outlook? 

Microsoft announced that you will be able to respond to meeting requests by stating how and from which location you intend to join from. A new RSVP window will allow you to show whether you will be attending in person or remotely. This capability not only allows you to state where you will be when this meeting takes place but also helps the organiser to adjust the meetings based on your location. This feature will be coming to the floor in the form of a public preview in the 2nd quarter of 2022.  

What is changing for Microsoft Teams? 

Microsoft revealed that a new and improved speaker coach feature will be coming to Teams which will enable presenters to adjust their presentations to meet the demands of those attending from home. This new feature will be powered by AI to enable you to pace out your presentation, notify you should you be interrupting an attendee and tell you to check in with your attendees on regular occasions.  

In addition to this, a new state-of-the-art language option will also be available to allow live interpreters to translate a speaker’s words into a different language in real time. Those in charge of the meeting will be able to select from over 16 language options. You will find that these words will be in the foreground with the original words at the back. 

The new features don’t stop there, Microsoft will be also improving the whiteboard in Teams through more templates, reactions and a way to allow greater collaboration on whiteboards.  

All of the above features will be available in Q2 of this year. 

Next Steps? 

If you are a business that is looking to take advantage of the above by purchasing a Microsoft 365 licence or wanting to implement Microsoft Teams or even looking to setup up full time remote working then get in touch with one of our IT experts now to discuss how you can transform the way you work. 

Want to get updates like the above delivered straight to you? You can by signing up to our mailing list.