Handling questionable audio levels during a Microsoft Teams call may soon be a thing of the past after a new platform update.
The company revealed that users of its video conferencing service will soon be able to control certain aspects of calls using a Bluetooth device.
The change means users will soon be able to use a Bluetooth headset or speakerphone to answer or end a Microsoft Teams call, giving users much more flexibility, such as answering a call on the go or at their desk.
Microsoft Bluetooth Teams
The news will allow Microsoft Teams users to use buttons on a connected Bluetooth device to control their call, primarily by answering, ending, or putting the call on hold.
These devices won't even require a USB dongle when connected to a Windows PC running the Teams desktop client, and Microsoft says that for many headsets and speakers it will work without requiring any user action to activate other than pairing the device with the PC. .
For starters, only certain devices are likely to be able to use the feature, and Microsoft notes that users should keep an eye on its certification page for additional information on devices tested to meet all certification criteria soon with native Bluetooth connections.
The official Microsoft 365 roadmap says that the feature is currently under development, but it is expected to begin rolling out to users in March 2022. When it becomes available, the feature will be available only to all desktop users. start immediately.
The update could be welcome news for businesses looking to upgrade their online collaboration hardware and follows the recent launch of a new initiative designed to bring even more customers to Teams.
Microsoft recently announced a new device trade-in program that allows businesses to claim cash back on video conferencing hardware and older desk phones when they switch to Microsoft Teams. The program will be facilitated by a partnership with Network-Value, a company specializing in global device return and responsible equipment disposal.