(Updated) App names hidden in app bar for a cleaner, more focused experience [MC1226220]

Message ID: MC1226220 (Updated)

Updated February 11, 2026: We have updated the content. Thank you for your patience. 

[Introduction]

We are updating the Microsoft Teams app bar to create a cleaner and more focused experience. App names will be hidden by default, showing only app icons. This helps reduce visual noise and improves overall navigation clarity. Users can choose to show app names again in Settings.

Accessibility reviews have been conducted to verify compliance and ensure screen readers are working properly.

[When this will happen]

General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out in mid-February 2026 (previously late February) and expect to complete by early April 2026 (previously early March).

[How this affects your organization]

Who is affected: All Microsoft Teams users in commercial (non-government) tenants.

What will happen:

• App names in the Teams app bar will be hidden by default.
• Users will see app icons only, providing a simplified vertical navigation experience.
• Users who prefer to show app names may update this setting individually:
  • Settings > Appearance > Show app names in the app bar
• No admin configuration changes are required.
• There is no impact to existing policies, permissions, or app availability.

Screenshot 1 – Before:

 

Screenshot 2 – After:

[What you can do to prepare]

• No action is required.
• If helpful, you may notify users or help desk staff about this visual update and how to re-enable app names.
• If your organization maintains internal documentation or screenshots of the Teams interface, consider updating them after rollout.

[Compliance considerations]

No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.

Source: Microsoft

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