Microsoft Teams will soon be upgraded with Low Bandwidth Mode to enhance quality of the video calls over poor and unstable connections. However, the new feature will only be available for the desktop client. The feature was initially spotted on Microsoft 365 Roadmap website.
The addition of low bandwidth mode will enable users with slow Internet connectivity to enhance video calls if the connectivity is unstable. You should note that video calls require high bandwidth with high participant count. Hence, it will become difficult to host lag-free video conferences over low bandwidth connections. The new feature will be designed to limit the data usage during a meeting including the ability to tweak settings based on the requirements. The Low Bandwidth Mode feature will be made available only for desktop clients and will be rolled out in a phased manner.
According to the Microsoft 365 Roadmap website, the data consumption should be limited during a video call not only to preserve data but also to cope up with the poor or limited network connectivity. The new low data mode will enable users to cap the data limit that will be used during Microsoft Teams video calls.
For those unaware, Microsoft Teams will receive end-to-end encryption for calls including support for up to 1000 participants. The app will be refreshed with a channel-sharing functionality with support for intelligent speakers. The company also announced that PowerPoint Live will also be included in the Teams app and will get a makeover with a new presenter mode. The Redmond-based software giant is also working to reduce the CPU and RAM usage when it comes to Teams desktop app. Moreover, you can expect the rollout of offline auto-send and the ability to include 10000 users in enterprise teams.