Microsoft to shut Teams Free (classic) version from April 12: Details here

Microsoft has announced that its video-conferencing platform Teams Free (classic) version will no longer be available from April 12.

"After April 12, 2023, Microsoft Teams Free (classic), the legacy free Teams app for business, will no longer be available," said Microsoft.

The company mentioned that users will need to upgrade to the Microsoft Teams Essentials by paying Rs 110 per user/month to preserve chats, meetings, channels and other key info.

"Upgrading to Microsoft Teams Essentials is the easiest way to continue using Teams and maintain access to all your chats, files, teams, and meetings. Teams Essentials also provides unlimited group meetings for up to 30 hours in length with up to 300 participants per meeting, and 10 GB of cloud storage per user -- all for only Rs 110 per user/month," it added.

Alongside, the company announced another free version named Teams (Free). It is for the consumers and small businesses who would prefer to continue using a free version of Teams. However, a fresh sign up is required for the newer free option. Moreover, to keep existing files, users need to manually save and transfer them to the new free account. The new Microsoft Teams (free) includes unlimited group meetings up to 60 minutes long, up to 100 participants per meeting, and 5 GB of cloud storage per user.

“Beginning April 12, 2023, Microsoft Teams Free (classic) will no longer be available. Customers may use the newer free version of Teams, or upgrade to another version of Teams, such as Teams Essentials or Microsoft 365 Business Plans, which are designed for small businesses,” said Microsoft spokesperson.

Last month, Microsoft announced to move some 'Microsoft Team' features to its new more costly Premium edition like translated captions, custom Together Mode scenes and virtual appointment options.

The company revealed the changes in a licensing guide update late last month and mentioned that "some Teams features will move from Teams licenses to Teams Premium license" after the Premium edition launches fully in February.