Microsoft has announced that it will prevent the new Teams app from running on older versions of Windows 10 and 11. This decision is part of Microsoft’s ongoing efforts to ensure users have the best possible experience with their software.
Note: Users on Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) deployments are currently excluded.

Why the Change?

Microsoft’s decision to block the new Teams app on outdated Windows versions is driven by several key factors:

  1. Security Enhancements: Older versions of Windows often lack the latest security updates, making them more vulnerable to cyber threats. By restricting access to the new Teams app, Microsoft aims to protect users from potential security risks.
  2. Performance Improvements: The new Teams app is designed to leverage the latest advancements in Windows technology. Running it on older versions could result in suboptimal performance, affecting user productivity.
  3. Streamlined Support: Supporting multiple versions of Windows can be challenging. By focusing on the latest versions, Microsoft can provide users with more efficient and effective support.

How this will affect your organization:

New Teams- Windows 10 OS Versions less than 19041

  • Beginning October 15th, 2024, the Teams desktop client may present a banner notifying users that they are on an unsupported OS version with a link to this page.
  • Beginning January 15th, 2025. The desktop client may present a blocking page for users and require an update to a supported OS version to continue using the Desktop Client with a link to this page.

New Teams- Windows 10 or Windows 11 OS on LTSC update servicing (not on Modern Lifecycle)

  • Beginning October 15th, 2024, the Teams desktop client may present a banner notifying users that they are on an unsupported OS version with a link to this page.
  • Beginning August 15th, 2025. The desktop client may present a blocking page for users and require an update to a supported OS version to continue using the Desktop Client with a link to this page.

New Teams – macOS versions 11 (Big Sur) and older

  • Beginning October 15th, 2024, the Teams desktop client may present a banner notifying users that they are on an unsupported OS version with a link to this page.
  • Beginning November 15th, 2024, the Teams desktop client may present a blocking page for users and require an update to a supported OS version to continue using the Desktop Client with a link to this page.

New Teams – macOS 12 (Monterey)

  • Beginning November 15th, 2024, the Teams desktop client may present a banner notifying users that they are on an unsupported OS version with a link to this page.
  • Beginning March 15th, 2025, the Teams desktop client may present a blocking page for users and require an update to a supported OS version to continue using the Desktop Client with a link to this page.

Note: For the classic Teams client see End of availability for classic Teams client for classic Teams Timelines regarding end of support and end of availability.

How to Upgrade

Upgrading to the latest version of Windows 11 with Intune is described in this step-by-step article.

Benefits of Upgrading

Upgrading to the latest version of Windows offers numerous benefits:

  • Enhanced Security: Stay protected with the latest security patches and updates.
  • Improved Performance: Enjoy faster and more efficient performance with the latest features and optimizations.
  • Access to New Features: Take advantage of the latest features and improvements in the new Teams app and other Microsoft software.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s decision to block the new Teams app on older Windows versions underscores the importance of keeping software up to date. By upgrading to the latest version of Windows, users can ensure they have the best possible experience with the new Teams app, along with enhanced security and performance.

Source: Microsoft 365 Message Center, message MC898394

 

Paul Cobben