Microsoft launches faster Teams client for Windows and Mac, integrated with AI Copilot

Microsoft has introduced a new version of its Microsoft Teams chat client for Windows and Mac, offering significant performance improvements. The updated client operates twice as fast as the previous version and consumes 50% less memory, making it a more efficient choice for older computers. In this update, the long-anticipated integration with Microsoft Copilot has also been introduced. This enables users to quickly review key meeting points and summarize lengthy conversation threads without reading them in full. Microsoft Copilot (Windows & 365) can also uncover and use information buried in documents, presentations, emails, calendars, notes, and more.

The installation process for the new client is now three times faster, and the time to start or join meetings has been reduced by half. The application also uses 70% less disk space, freeing up substantial storage on devices. These enhancements are due to Microsoft's transition from Electron foundations to its Edge WebView2 technology and the React JavaScript library. The user interface has also been redesigned using the Fluent design language system.

The updated client retains most features, including custom apps, third-party apps, breakout rooms, 7x7 video, call queues, PSTN calling, contextual search, and cross-posting in channels. Microsoft has stated that future improvements to Teams will be exclusive to this updated client, requiring an upgrade for businesses wanting to access these enhancements. Existing Teams users will be automatically upgraded to the new client in the coming months.