Microsoft is set to implement several updates to its Teams app soon, as reported by The Verge. One major enhancement includes a unified view for chats and channels that will enter public preview next month. Additionally, threaded conversations are expected to be introduced in 2025.
Currently, the Teams app separates your one-on-one and group chats into one section and your channels into another. Although the channels are just a quick click away from the chats tab, this extra step can impede efficient communication.
When users are unable to keep track of all new posts in a single location, it becomes challenging to manage various communication channels, leading to potential oversights. The new combined view will allow users to see both chats and channels collaboratively, enabling them to organize their communications according to their preferences.
A new Favorites section at the top will allow users to pin their most frequently accessed chats and channels, and they can also thematically group their chats and channels. The interface will retain distinctive icons: circle icons for chats and square icons for channels, ensuring each is easily identifiable.
Additional features are on the horizon, including enhanced message previews and the ability to manage time stamps. A view for @mentions will help users swiftly address priority messages without overlooking anything important.
These updates are expected to roll out for both desktop and mobile versions, so be sure to update in November to experience the new features. While threaded conversations may take some time to arrive, their eventual introduction promises to streamline chats, keeping the main feed clear with only the initial message visible and allowing users to click to reveal replies.
Although Microsoft Teams often receives criticism compared to other messaging apps like Slack, these improvements appear to be a positive move toward enhancing user experience.
