Microsoft Teams Introduces Stylish Personalized Backgrounds for Premium Users

Those seeking to infuse a dash of personal touch and creativity into their Microsoft Teams virtual backgrounds will be pleased to hear about the platform's latest rollout. Users will soon be able to spruce up their video calls with enhanced and tailor-made background designs thanks to a novel tool described on the Microsoft 365 roadmap.

Labeled "decorate your background," this update will enable individuals to craft engaging virtual environments during video calls by applying elaborate effects to the backgrounds.

Details concerning the specifics of the feature's functionality have not been extensively disclosed by Microsoft, but the implication is that users will have the liberty to modify and personalize existing virtual backdrops within Teams to better reflect their personalities or moods.

The innovation is currently launching for both Windows desktop and Mac users. Nevertheless, this luxury is reserved for those who have subscribed to Microsoft Teams Premium.

Teams Premium made its debut in February 2023 as Microsoft's initiative to provide a heightened, individualized user experience. It boasted a suite of AI-enhanced tools and plugins, including the intelligent recap feature that utilizes GPT 3.5, a language model by OpenAI, to streamline routine meeting-related tasks.

Microsoft is currently promoting Teams Premium at a rate of $7 per user monthly, which is less than the $10 "standard price," representing a significant saving of 30%.

This background customization feature joins a growing list of exclusive benefits for Teams Premium users. Another recently announced perk is the upcoming launch of live translated call transcripts, allowing for instant translation of calls into various languages.

The trend of personalizing Teams' virtual backgrounds is gaining traction, with the platform consistently rolling out new patterns and designs. For example, the addition of six distinct categories of backgrounds aims to set various atmospheres conducive to productivity during Teams calls.

Furthermore, Microsoft Teams declared its intention to launch a comprehensive tool that consolidates emojis, GIFs, and stickers. This feature will simplify the process of finding and sharing reactions, streamlining the way users express themselves during virtual interactions.