Microsoft is unlocking the "Full Potential" of Private Channels in Microsoft Teams: What You Need to Know

It has been a while since I posted something just about a Microsoft Teams update, as a lot have been Copilot in Teams to be honest. But here is a real Microsoft Teams update I think is worth knowing about, and it involves Security and Compliance as well. Microsoft is rolling out a "major" update to private channels in Teams, starting in late September 2025 and continuing through mid-December. This biggest change in this update is a shift in how private channel data is stored from individual user mailboxes to a dedicated channel mailbox. Not only will this simplifie compliance management, it will also and align private channels with shared channels, making governance and experience more consistent across Teams. This update promises to increase the support up to 1000 channels per team and 5000 members per channel, removing previous limitations. Teams will also allow meetings to be scheduled directly within private channels, enhancing collaboration.  For organizations using Micr...

Upcoming updates to Viva (and Copilot)

Copilot Academy will be available for all Microsoft 365 users

Although this is technically to updates, here is a an update on Viva Learning. Microsoft is now enabling the AI and Copilot Resources provider by default for all users. This change aims to enhance the learning experience across organizations by making the provider accessible to all Viva Learning users. This will make it easier for all users of both licensed and non-licensed Copilot users to improve on their skills.

Preparation Steps: This rollout will occur automatically, requiring no admin action beforehand. However, it's crucial to review your current configuration to understand the impact on your organization. Consider notifying your users about this change and updating any relevant documentation.

Admin Management: Admins can manage the visibility of the AI and Copilot Resources provider in Viva Learning on the Admin page under the Manage providers tab and the Manage Permissions tab. Admins need the role of Global admin, Knowledge admin, or Knowledge manager, or access through Viva Learning's feature access management. For more details, visit Viva Learning Feature Access Management.

Rollout Timeline: The rollout will begin with a public preview in early April 2025 and may already be in your tenant. The general availability will begin right after the preview, and should be completed by late April 2025.

This change is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 479410 and 479415