It appears Microsoft may be a little closer to launching a free version of Microsoft Teams as it seeks to challenge Slack in the workplace. References to a free tier first popped up in February within a developer preview of the communications app. Now, the free tier looks to be coming more into focus thanks to Microsoft's own documentation.
The references come by way an official end user notice and a subscription agreement spotted by Twitter user WalkingCat, who is known for digging up in-development projects from Microsoft. In both, Microsoft Teams (free) is mentioned, along with some details of what to expect.
Microsoft Teams (free) End User Notice https://t.co/yutrtgyUAV Online Subscription Agreement https://t.co/TTIo4CsU7S
— WalkingCat (@h0x0d) June 14, 2018
From the end user notice:
Microsoft Teams (free) is intended for use by organizations, such as small businesses or groups of coworkers. If you were invited to join a group in Microsoft Teams (free), the group you are joining in the Microsoft Teams (free) instance will be considered your organization for the purposes of this notice, and the person administering the group will be considered the administrator of your account in Microsoft Teams (free).
Information in the developer preview found in February indicated that the free version would have some limitations compared to its paid counterpart. At the time, that included a dialog box that would prompt users to upgrade when they exceed a free storage limit. However, it's not hard to imagine we could also see restrictions on team sizes or sizes of shared files.
Currently, Microsoft Teams requires an Office 365 plan to use. But giving users a way to sample Teams with a free version could have the effect of helping to boost Microsoft's base of paid users by converting those who may not have been ready to jump right in.
There's no way of telling when Microsoft plans to unveil a potential free tier for Teams, but the official references indicate it could be close at hand.
We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.
Here's everything we know (so far) about Star Wars: Squadrons
Star Wars: Squadrons is a dog-fighting game developed by EA Motive. Players join the New Republic or the remnants of the Empire and engage in vicious space battles. Here's what we know so far.
Review: Elgato's Wave 3 is a great first attempt at a condenser mic
The Elgato Wave 3 is one of two new microphones from Elgato, which aims to give streamers an affordable high-quality all-in-one condenser mic with impressive studio features on the side. Is it worth the asking price, though? Let's take a look (and listen.)
Review: F1 2020 is a polished racer for long-time fans and newcomers alike
In a turn of events in this crazy year we're having, the real-life F1 championship is making its debut in the same week as the official game. It's been months of nothing for fans of the sport and as we hit July it's time for all the racing action you can handle. F1 2020 is pretty damn good, but you knew that already. Here's what's cooking in this year's title.
10 must-have apps for any new PC
You just purchased a new PC and set it up, and now you're looking for some great apps. Look no further. These are the best apps for your new Windows 10 PC.
