As part of the current Microsoft 365 roadmap update, the firm revealed that the 3D avatars functionality will be available to all Microsoft Teams users beginning in May.
According to The Verge, the business first revealed the avatars feature in 2021 and has been testing it discreetly in recent months.
Microsoft Teams avatars are designed to assist users avoid appearing on camera during meetings.
If customers do not want to appear on video or need a break from continual calls, they can replace it with a 3D avatar that animates exclusively based on their verbal signals – no camera required.
“It’s not binary, so I can choose how I want to show up, whether it’s video or an avatar, and there’s a variety of customised options to choose how you want to be present in a meeting,” Katie Kelly, principal product manager for Microsoft Mesh, was quoted as saying.
“We are able to interpret your vocal cues to animate that avatar, so it does feel present and it does feel like it’s there with you,” she added.
Likewise, Microsoft has stated that the Teams free edition, a traditional business programme, would be discontinued on April 12.
“After April 12, 2023, Microsoft Teams Free (classic), the legacy free Teams app for business, will no longer be available,” said Microsoft.
