Microsoft Teams will soon make it easier to switch calls between devices

Microsoft has announced a new capability within Teams that will make it easier to switch between desktop and mobile devices during a live call.

Microsoft revealed that starting 2021, users will be able to shift calls between their mobile and desktop endpoints with an easy-to-use interface on the Teams app.

The news comes as Microsoft outlined several enhancements to the calls feature on Teams. First among them is a more streamlined calling experience on Teams by merging the dial pad, call history, voicemail, contacts, and settings into a single location. Teams admins also gained the option to record calls and save them directly into OneDrive or SharePoint.

Microsoft also announced Teams’ support for Apple's CarPlay. The update makes placing and receiving calls in the car easier by using vehicles’ built-in controls to operate Teams and using Siri to place and answer calls.

Spam call identification, call merging, and reverse number lookup are other enhancements coming to Microsoft Teams.

Finally, starting in early 2021, Microsoft will allow users to select a “Low Data'' mode that’ll limit the amount of data used during a video chat or call. This data capping will enable users with slow connections or limited data plans to use Teams via their smartphones without data-usage concerns. Users will also be able to establish different settings based on whether they’re on a cellular or Wi-Fi network.

“Earlier this year, IT leaders around the globe were forced to reprioritize their roadmaps, resources, and budgets to equip employees for remote work practically overnight. Suddenly, the use of video communications skyrocketed,” said Microsoft.

The tech giant also reported that Teams users have made over 650 million calls in October, up elevenfold since March.