480716 – Microsoft Teams: Send messages to attendees in the meeting lobby with lobby chat

Product:

Teams

Platform:

Android, iOS, Mac, US Instances, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

Launched

Change type:

Links:

MC1069555

Details:

Now meeting organizers can send one-way messages to attendees in the lobby via the lobby chat. The Lobby chat is intended to optimize the lobby experience for all participants, ensuring that organizers are better equipped to run external meetings, have more control over meetings with external participants, and external attendees are well informed about the meeting upon meeting start.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability, Targeted Release

Created:
2025-03-05

updated:
2025-10-18

Docu to Check

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MS workload name

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Please, look at the most relevant linked item for details

explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you're hosting a party at your house, and some guests arrive early. You want to let them know that the party will start soon, but you don't want to let them in just yet because you're still setting up. In the world of Microsoft Teams, this is similar to having attendees in the "lobby" of a virtual meeting.

Previously, if you wanted to communicate with these early arrivals, you had to wait until they were fully inside the meeting. Now, with the new lobby chat feature, you can send them a quick message while they're still waiting outside. It's like slipping a note under the door to let them know you're almost ready and to hang tight for a few more minutes.

This feature is particularly useful for meetings with external participants, where you might need to give them specific instructions or updates before they join the main conversation. It helps ensure everyone is on the same page from the start, making the meeting run more smoothly.

Think of it as a digital welcome mat, where you can greet your guests and give them a heads-up about what's to come, all while keeping the main event organized and under control. Whether you're using a desktop, mobile device, or accessing Teams through the web, this feature is designed to enhance the meeting experience for both organizers and attendees.