Microsoft Teams Insider

Reto Schadegg, Global IT Infrastructure Manager at SCOR, leads the rollout of 200 Microsoft Teams Rooms across 35 countries in just 90 days. He discusses the meticulous vendor selection that made Neat Bar Pro the core device for most rooms. The effort resulted in a remarkable 40% reduction in operational costs and streamlined support with only 1.5 personnel for 200 rooms. Reto also highlights SCOR's ongoing transition to Teams Phone, aiming to eliminate desk phones and achieve significant telecom savings.

In this discussion, Michael Levy, CEO of Numonix, a specialist in compliance recording solutions, shares insights on compliance-grade recording in Microsoft Teams. He talks about the rigorous certification process, the importance of adapting to platform updates, and the complex landscape of regulations like GDPR. The conversation also highlights advanced features like AI integration and filtered recording that enhance compliance. Levy emphasizes the need for ongoing security reviews to ensure that technology solutions remain compliant as they evolve.

Microsoft Teams Monthly Update - April 2025Teams clients older than 90 days will be blocked​General Channel is back​Detect sensitive content screen shared in meetings​Share PowerPoint control with all presenters​New Unify Contact Center to Microsoft Teams Integration model​Enforcement of Teams Phone license checks for Extend Contact Centres and Attendant Consoles​M365 Copilot Chat will be pinned by default in Teams and Outlook​Teams Devices Updates​Roadmap Watch​Thanks to Neat, this month's benefactor, for your support of Empowering.Cloud and the community.Note that this is an audio-only version of the update, so if you would like to see the accompanying slides, please watch the video version on Empowering.Cloud

Evie Grimshaw, a Product Manager at Microsoft focusing on Teams devices, shares insights into the innovative bookable desks feature within Microsoft Teams. She explains how this system allows for seamless desk reservations without new hardware, enhancing the remote work experience. The discussion covers user control over location privacy, and how admins gain valuable insights through integrated analytics. Upcoming updates promise even more flexibility and smarter desk management, making hybrid work easier for everyone.

Tom Arbuthnot speaks with Adam Holtby, a Principal Analyst at Omdia, about the evolving landscape of Teams Phone Mobile, mobile UCaaS integration and its strategic impact on organizations.Discussion Points:Challenges: Tom and Adam discuss the slow adoption of mobile UCaaS, highlighting the need for better integration between cellular networks and collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and Cisco WebExOpportunity: The opportunity for telcos to become key integrators of advanced communication solutions, enhancing their business value.Strategic Benefits for Enterprises: A centralized approach to managing mobile and fixed collaboration tools can significantly reduce costs and improve operational efficiency for multinational companiesSecurity and Compliance: Benefits for regulated industries like financial services, where secure and compliant communication is essential.Thanks to Ribbon, this episode's sponsor, for their continued support and for helping to make content like this possible

In this insightful discussion, Matt Peers, the Global COO of Pinsent Masons, shares his vision for modernizing the legal sector through AI and tools like Microsoft's Copilot. He elaborates on how AI enhances lawyer capabilities rather than replaces them, enabling quicker, higher-quality client responses. Matt highlights the importance of continuous training and storytelling in fostering tech adoption. He also discusses the shift towards modern collaborative platforms, emphasizing the need for effective change management in today’s fast-evolving legal landscape.

Greg Baribault, VP of Product & Portfolio Management at HP and former Microsoft veteran, shares insights into the evolution of collaboration tools. He discusses the transition from Skype Room Systems to Microsoft Teams Rooms, emphasizing the need for seamless meeting experiences. Greg highlights HP's integration of technology from Polycom and Vyopta to enhance both physical and virtual meetings. He also examines the impact of hybrid work on collaboration technology and the industry's shift towards innovative video conferencing solutions in response to recent challenges.

Scott Plette, Partner Group Program Manager for Microsoft Teams Calling and Premium, shares his expertise on the innovative Queues app. He discusses how it enhances team collaboration and manages customer calls while providing essential insights through reporting features. Upcoming enhancements like shared call history and AI integration promise to automate insights and improve customer interactions. Scott also highlights advanced call monitoring features and the growth of Teams Phone during the pandemic, emphasizing adaptability in modern communication.

Dive into the latest developments in Microsoft Teams, including exciting new features like Apple Airplay integration and desk booking advancements. Discover updates on client functionality, security enhancements, and tools designed to boost collaboration. The conversation also covers the introduction of SMS for calling plans and highlights from the recent Enterprise Connect event. Get ready to optimize your Teams experience with these game-changing functionalities!

Tom Garland, Global Service Delivery Manager at Willis Towers Watson, shares his expertise on evolving from traditional PBX systems to Microsoft Teams Phone. He discusses the complexities of integrating legacy systems and how the pandemic accelerated the need for cloud-based solutions. Tom highlights the importance of aligning projects to business needs and managing user expectations, especially in diverse regions like India. He also emphasizes compliance with call recording regulations and enhancing user experiences through innovative technology.