Following the publication of the 2022 Work Trend Index report, Microsoft is rolling out new features for its hybrid work platforms and apps.

Microsoft Teams is getting the bulk of the update, including shared channels for collaborating with people outside of a workspace and changes to the video calling UI. PowerPoint is getting the ability to record video and give presentations through Teams, with a preview coming later.

First is front row for Teams, a UI change that moves the team gallery to the bottom of the screen in a video call. It’s meant to simulate eye-to-eye conversations by keeping people at eye level, and is currently in preview.

Microsoft Teams Connect lets you add others to a channel without adding them to the team. The goal is to include people outside of your typical work team, but who are still important to the task at hand. For Office 365/Microsoft 365, a public preview will be launched in late March, but you will need to register to get access.