485713 – Microsoft Teams: Select camera in pre-join and during meeting

Product:

Teams

Platform:

iOS, World tenant

Status:

Rolling out

Change type:

Links:

Details:

Users can select an internal or external camera, or keep it turned off, before joining or during Teams meetings.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-05-02

updated:
2025-08-20

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**

Camera Selection Issues
Users may experience difficulties in selecting the correct camera, leading to confusion and delays in meetings.
   - roles: End Users, IT Support
   - references: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-teams-blog/whats-new-in-microsoft-teams-august-2023/ba-p/3901230, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/

User Experience Disruption
If users are unable to pre-select their camera, it may result in a poor user experience, affecting engagement and productivity during meetings.
   - roles: End Users, Meeting Organizers
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/04/12/the-future-of-remote-working-5-ways-technology-is-changing-the-way-we-work/, https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams/

Configutation Options**

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explanation for non-techies**

Imagine you're about to join a video call, much like preparing to enter a meeting room. Just as you might choose which chair to sit in or which side of the table to be on, Microsoft Teams now allows you to select which camera you'd like to use before you join the meeting. This is like deciding whether to sit by the window or closer to the door, depending on your preference or need at that moment.

If you're using a laptop with a built-in camera, that's like having a fixed seat in the room. But if you have an external camera, perhaps one with better quality or a different angle, it's like having the option to bring your own chair that you find more comfortable or suitable for the meeting. You can make this choice right before you enter the meeting, ensuring you're seen in the best light, literally and figuratively.

Once you're in the meeting, it's as if you're already seated at the table. However, if you realize that the current setup isn't working for you, maybe the lighting has changed or you need a different perspective, you can switch cameras during the meeting. This flexibility is akin to being able to move to a different seat mid-meeting if it helps you participate more effectively.

This feature is available across various devices, including iOS, ensuring that whether you're using a smartphone, tablet, or computer, you have the same level of control over how you present yourself in a virtual meeting. This capability is rolling out to users worldwide, making it easier for everyone to manage their video presence in a way that suits their needs best.