There have been a number of useful updates to Microsoft Teams in recent months. For more descriptions, see this post in the Microsoft Teams Q&A Teams channel.

The "Shared" tab has new capabilities

In channels, the "Files" tab was renamed to "Shared". This enables you to view content shared in posts and content in the document library in one place. 

Note: The Shared tab in Chats is not be affected by this change.

Shorter meeting links

Meeting links have been reconstructed from 240 characters to around 70 characters.

Open channels in dedicated windows

This allows you to detach any channel from the main Teams client and view it in a separate window—supporting better multitasking and focus, especially in high-traffic or cross-functional collaboration scenarios.

Noise suppression for dial-in participants

Microsoft Teams introduced noise suppression for PSTN dial-in participants in Audio Conferences. This feature automatically reduces background noise—such as traffic or keyboard sounds—enhancing audio clarity for users joining meetings via phone.

View incoming calls in a small window

A new setting allows you to accept a call in a small window and continue to see what you were working on before the call.

New keyboard shortcut for adding emojis

Insert emojis in the compose box by typing a word surrounded by colons. For example, :smile: will turn into the smiling face emoji. 

Countdown timer

Any meeting participant can add a visual timer (up to 100 minutes) directly within the meeting window. The timer will is accessible from the More menu in the meeting controls. The timer is visible to all participants once started.

Key capabilities include:

• Set timers up to 100 minutes.
• Start, pause, stop, reset, or cancel the timer.
• Visual and audio alerts when the timer ends.
• Color changes as time runs out to help speakers stay on track.
• Hide the timer from personal view without affecting others.
• The timer continues counting negatively after reaching zero, encouraging timely wrap-up of discussions.

Block Dangerous File Types and URLs

Starting in mid- to late November, Microsoft Teams will automatically block messages that include attached weaponizable files, and URLs that link to malicious sites. This applies to both internal and external Teams conversations