Try the New Microsoft Teams Desktop App!

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What is the 'new Teams'?

The new Microsoft Teams (also known as 'new Teams') is Microsoft's new, redesigned Teams desktop application for Windows and Mac.

The new Teams application on your computer is labelled as 'Microsoft Teams (work or school)' while the old version of Teams is labelled as 'Microsoft Teams classic'.

Microsoft has announced that classic Teams users will be automatically updated to the new Teams after March 31, 2024.

How do I start using the new Teams? 

Turn on the ‘Try the new Teams’ toggle located in the top-left corner of your Teams desktop app.

Update your preferences!

Since the new Teams is a separate application from the old Teams (Teams classic), any settings or preferences you previously configured may be reset to the default settings.

Before you start using the new Teams, you may need to:

  • Select 'Switch now' the first time you open the application


  • Re-pin the new Teams application to your taskbar (Windows) or your dock (Mac)

Below are popular settings that can be changed in Teams: 

  • Change Teams to list view or grid view
  • Change your theme
  • Turn on/off the ability to open Teams chats and files in a new window 
    • Select the three-dots icon > Settings > under 'General', select your preferred settings.
  • Change the way you open files and links in Teams
    • Select the three-dots icon > Settings > under 'Files and links', select your file open preference.

Known issues in the new Teams

Below are issues that have been identified during the ICT pilot of new Teams, which was conducted November 16-30, 2023: 

  • Notifications for new channel messages may only show up in the temporary message pop-up or under the Activity Log. You may not receive a red dot notification next to the new Teams application icon in your taskbar or dock.
  • View the full list of known issues from Microsoft.

Note: Teams classic will still be available for use on your computer. If you run into any issues with the new Teams, you can switch back to Teams classic, or try uninstalling/reinstalling the new Teams.

HELP AND SUPPORT

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the new Teams, please contact the ICT Service Desk.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

This list of FAQs will continue to be updated as questions arise. 

Why is the new Teams not working on my computer? 

Make sure your computer's OS is up-to-date – New Teams will only run on Windows 10 version 10.0.19041 (20H1 and higher) and up for Windows and Big Sur and up for Macs. 

What is the difference between Teams classic and the new Teams? 

The new Teams desktop client loads faster, uses less memory and disk space on your computer, and allows you to do more with less clicks. 

How do I access keyboard shortcuts in the new Teams? 

Select on the three-dots menu in the upper-right hand corner, then select 'Keyboard shortcuts'. You can view shortcuts for Teams Phone calls if you scroll down to the 'Meetings, Calls, and Calendar section.


Read more about keyboard shortcuts for all platforms.

Why am I not getting notifications from some Teams messages in the new Teams?

As noted above under the 'known issues' section, pilot users have experienced not receiving notifications for new channel messages. ICT is waiting for an update from Microsoft on how this will be addressed.

See more FAQs from Microsoft.

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