Microsoft has recently announced a series of new features and updates across their applications, including Outlook, Microsoft Teams, and SharePoint. These new developments are centered around improving user experience, streamlining workflows, and offering advanced communication tools with remote work on the rise. In this article, we’ll explore these new features in detail, as well as their expected release dates.

Outlook: Improved Functionality and Convenience

In October, web users of Outlook can expect an update that provides dictation support, enabling speech-to-text capabilities for composing and replying to emails. The web version will also have an improved feedback entry point, while the iOS app will offer the option to expand or collapse nested mail folders. For Android users, notifications will be sent when they are ‘@mentioned’ in emails or documents.

These new features aim to enhance workflow and communication efficiency by providing a more user-friendly and accessible experience on all platforms. This aligns with Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to innovation and integration, ensuring that they remain competitive and responsive to the diverse needs of their clients.

Microsoft Teams Premium: Branded Meetings and Enhanced Customization

Starting in November, premium Microsoft Teams subscribers will have the ability to initiate branded meetings on both desktop and Mac devices. The Teams Join Launcher webpage will display custom brand logos and images uploaded specifically for these events. This update is designed to provide a more personalized and professional experience for meeting participants, promote brand visibility, and foster a sense of familiarity during virtual meetings.

Furthermore, premium users will gain access to an advanced meeting template that includes increased control and customization options. This template allows for efficient management of attendees, preset agendas, and secure file sharing, all tailored to suit an organization’s specific needs.

Teams 2.0: Transparency and Security

Also arriving in November is Teams 2.0, which includes a feature that informs users if they are unable to access meeting chats due to policy or system restrictions. This update aims to enhance transparency, minimize confusion, and ensure compliance with security guidelines. As a result, users will be better equipped to address potential issues and improve overall communication within the Teams platform.

SharePoint: List Templates for Document Libraries

In October, SharePoint will be introducing List templates to document libraries. These templates simplify the process of creating libraries for specific scenarios, complete with relevant content, structure, metadata, and content types. This feature is intended to streamline user experience, promote efficient library configuration, and facilitate better collaboration and productivity.

By saving time and promoting consistency across content management organizations, List templates enable teams to focus on high-quality content creation without getting bogged down in repetitive tasks. Moreover, the uniform approach ensures that content adheres to organizational guidelines, resulting in a cohesive brand identity and superior user experience.

Microsoft 365 Roadmap: Staying Informed

Microsoft plans to update the Microsoft 365 Roadmap with significant adjustments every Sunday. This weekly schedule keeps users and businesses abreast of the latest improvements, features, and bug fixes within Microsoft 365. By supplying timely information, Microsoft aims to help users better plan for, adopt, and utilize the suite’s constantly evolving tools, ultimately boosting productivity and collaboration.

In conclusion, these upcoming features and updates showcase Microsoft’s dedication to enhancing user experience, ensuring seamless collaboration, and advancing communication tools across their applications. As we continue to navigate a remote work landscape, it’s essential to stay informed about these developments to maximize the potential of Microsoft’s suite of tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

What improvements can we expect from the Outlook update?

In October, Outlook web users will receive dictation support for speech-to-text capabilities and an improved feedback entry point. The iOS app will allow expanding and collapsing nested mail folders, while Android users will receive notifications when they are ‘@mentioned’ in emails or documents.

What are the branded meetings features coming to Microsoft Teams Premium?

Starting November, premium Microsoft Teams subscribers will be able to initiate branded meetings with custom brand logos and images on both desktop and Mac devices. Moreover, premium users will have access to an advanced meeting template with increased control and customization options.

What is Teams 2.0 and what new features does it bring?

Teams 2.0, set to release in November, will include a feature that informs users if they are unable to access meeting chats due to policy or system restrictions. This update focuses on enhancing transparency, minimizing confusion, and ensuring compliance with security guidelines.

What are the new SharePoint List Templates for Document Libraries?

In October, SharePoint will introduce List templates to document libraries, simplifying the process of creating libraries for specific scenarios with relevant content, structure, metadata, and content types. These templates aim to streamline user experience, promote efficient library configuration, and facilitate better collaboration and productivity.

How often is the Microsoft 365 Roadmap updated?

Microsoft plans to update the Microsoft 365 Roadmap with significant adjustments every Sunday, keeping users and businesses informed of the latest improvements, features, and bug fixes within Microsoft 365.

First Reported on: neowin.net
Featured Image Credit: Photo by Ed Hardie; Unsplash; Thank you!