Microsoft Made Teams More Complicated To Use

According to a Microsoft support document, starting in April 2025, Microsoft Teams will discontinue the ability to send or receive SMS from Android devices. This transition encourages users to adopt the Phone Link app for text messaging.

If you try to send an SMS via Teams, you’ll encounter a notification alerting you to this upcoming change. Although the SMS feature is somewhat obscure and many might not even be aware it exists, it is being phased out. You can currently still access SMS messages under Recent and send texts, but this capability will soon be eliminated. The “Link your phone” feature currently allows you to manage your messages directly, simplifying the process without needing to switch apps.

As Skype prepares to shut down, some users may begin to explore Teams as an alternative, potentially expanding its user base. However, newcomers will face the requirement of using the Phone Link app for a function they previously could perform within Teams. This feature is compatible with Windows 11 PCs and any Android device running version 7.0 or higher. Additionally, you’ll need the Link to Windows app, which should be pre-installed on Android devices with version 9.0 or later.

Although it may feel inconvenient to shift to another app for messaging, the Phone Link app offers useful features, including monitoring your phone’s battery status, accessing your photos, and more. Transitioning to this app could ultimately prove beneficial.