Microsoft Teams is governed by the Modern Lifecycle Policy, the Teams desktop client needs to be under a supported OS version. This is to ensure that users have the latest updates, capabilities, performance enhancements, security features, and service compatibility.
On new Teams, users on OS versions that are not supported will receive in-app notifications to encourage them to update their device to a supported OS version. A version that is too far out of date will become incompatible with the service and the Desktop client will be blocked until the OS is updated.
Windows OSes support dates and lifecycle policy are documented in Product and Service lifecycle page. For example, OSes such as Windows LTSC and OSes under Long Term Serving Channel (LTSC), are not supported as they follow the Fixed lifecycle policy.
MacOS typically receives support for three years following its release, with the end of support coinciding with the launch of the third subsequent major macOS version. For example, once macOS 15 is released, macOS 12 will no longer be supported.
[When this will happen:]
This will be shown on the new Teams client starting on October 15th, 2024. Note, users on Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) deployments are currently excluded.
[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.
[What you can do to prepare:]
To avoid disruption to end-users, admins should plan for a regular OS update cadence to remain on a supported OS version.
Source: Microsoft
The upcoming update in Microsoft Teams will have an impact on both admins and users. For admins, it means ensuring that the organization’s devices are running on supported operating systems to maintain service compatibility and security features. As for users, they will receive notifications to update their devices if they are on an unsupported OS version.
In a criticality assessment, it’s crucial for admins to stay proactive in updating their OS to prevent any disruptions in using the Teams desktop client. Ignoring these updates could lead to a blocking page, requiring an immediate update to a supported OS version. So, it’s essential to stay on top of these changes to keep things running smoothly.
Remember, October 15th, 2024, is the key date to watch out for these changes in the Teams client. And for a bit of humor, just imagine your computer throwing a little tantrum if it’s not updated in time – nobody wants a moody device, right?
To prepare for this update, admins can plan for a regular OS update cadence to avoid any last-minute rush or disruptions for end-users. So, let’s keep those devices happy and updated for a smooth Teams experience!