Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration platform that allows you to chat, call, meet, and work with your colleagues and partners. In 2023, Microsoft introduced the new Teams, a reimagined version of Teams that is faster, simpler, and more flexible than ever before.
In this article, you will learn about the difference between Teams (Classic) and the new Teams, how to switch between the two, and some of the new features and benefits of the new Teams.
Difference between Teams (Classic) and the new Teams
In essence, the new Teams is an upgraded and optimized version of the classic version of Teams. The new Teams desktop client is rebuilt from the ground up with performance in mind, providing a faster, simpler, and more flexible experience.
Some of the key differences between Teams (Classic) and the new Teams are:
- The new Teams app launches and joins meetings up to 2X faster than the classic Teams app.
- The new Teams app consumes up to 50% less memory and up to 70% less disk space than the classic Teams app.
- The new Teams app supports signing into multiple work or school accounts (or as a Guest in other organizations) without signing in on multiple web browsers.
- The new Teams app has new content moderation tools and member management capabilities.
How to switch between Teams (Classic) and the new Teams
To switch between Teams (Classic) and the new Teams, you need to use the toggle next to Try the new Teams in the upper-left corner of the Teams app.
To switch to the new Teams:
- Open the Teams desktop app on your Windows or Mac device.
- Turn on the Try the new Teams toggle at the top of Teams.
- Select Get it now from the pop-out dialogue.
- The new Teams will start installing.
- Your Teams app will reboot to open the new Teams.
To switch back to the classic Teams:
- Turn off the New Teams toggle at the top of Teams.
- Note: If you are in a meeting or call while turning off the toggle, a notification will ask you to confirm the switch.
We hope this article helps you understand what to expect in the new Teams and how to switch between Teams (Classic) and the new Teams.
How to Set up Popular Settings in the New Teams
Change Layout between Grid (Default) and List View
- At the top-right corner of the screen, next to your profile picture, click on the three dots menu, then on Settings
Click on 'Appearance and accessibility' in the left menu, then find the Layout section.
Change Between Light and Dark Mode
- From the same settings menu as above, change the 'Theme' option to your preferred choice
Follow this link to learn more about the new Teams