Microsoft Teams Introduces Zoom Controls for Better Meeting Experience
Microsoft has recently released a new feature that is sure to enhance the overall experience of Microsoft Teams’ meeting attendees. This update allows participants to zoom in and out while viewing content on a shared screen during Teams meetings and calls. Until now, attendees had to use pinch-to-zoom gestures or alternative shortcuts to view content.
Improved Accessibility for Low Vision Participants
This new feature is especially beneficial to individuals with low vision or visual impairment. The new zoom controls can aid in their ability to view the shared content efficiently. The Office Insider team affirmed that “Users in a Teams call or meeting will now see new buttons to zoom in, zoom out and restore the original size of the incoming screen share. This will greatly enhance the experience of users viewing screen share”.
Zoom Controls in Microsoft Teams
To access the zoom controls, IT admins will have to sign up for the Microsoft Teams public preview program. They will then need to configure an update policy in the Microsoft Teams admin center. However, participants will not be able to view zoom controls while using the watermarking feature during Teams meetings.
As of now, the feature is only available on the Microsoft Teams app for Windows, macOS, and web app. It has not yet been announced whether the zoom controls will be available on the Teams mobile clients.
Teams 2.0 Update
In related news, Microsoft is preparing to make Teams 2.0 client the default experience on Windows later this year. Microsoft Product Lead for Teams 2.0, Anupam Pattnaik, confirmed that the app is also coming in preview to macOS, the web, and other platforms later this year. The app has been specifically rebuilt from the ground up to improve the performance and reduce the power consumption of devices using Windows.
Editorial and Philosophical Discussion
The introduction of the zoom controls feature is a welcome addition to the Microsoft Teams app’s functionality, especially for individuals with low vision issues. It is a clear indication of Microsoft’s commitment to inclusivity and ensuring all individuals can participate better in remote virtual meetings.
This latest update also highlights a broader philosophical discussion on the importance of accessibility features in technological advancements. It reveals that when technology is created with an all-inclusive focus, the resulting product benefits everyone, not only those with specific impairments. Therefore, it is essential that technological companies dedicate resources to creating products that are user-friendly, regardless of an individual’s abilities.
Recommendations
As technology continually evolves, it is crucial to seek innovative ways to include users of all demographics. Technology providers need to pay keen attention to the accessibilities needs of every user and incorporate them in their products’ design and deployment.
Therefore, organizations should encourage their IT teams to stay updated on the latest releases and features and ensure that appropriate accessibilities solutions are implemented to cater to all users’ needs. Furthermore, IT administrators should enroll their organizations in preview programs to gain access to new features, as early adoption often ensures a competitive edge.
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