MC1168294 – (Updated) Microsoft Teams: Apps now supported in Shared Channels

Product:

Teams, Windows

Platform:

Android, Developer, iOS, Mac, Online, Web, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

In development

Change type:

Admin impact, New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

505791

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft Teams now supports apps in Shared Channels, allowing users to add bots, tabs, and message extensions directly. Rollout starts mid-October 2025 (targeted) and mid-January 2026 (general). Apps must be added per channel with new governance controls. Admins and developers should update policies and app manifests accordingly.

Details:
Updated November 14, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.
Introduction
We're excited to announce that Microsoft Teams now supports apps in Shared Channels. This update enables richer collaboration scenarios across teams and organizations by allowing users to add and use apps-including bots, tabs, and message extensions-directly within Shared Channels. This change aligns with customer feedback requesting more consistent and flexible app experiences across collaboration spaces. Support for apps in Private Channels will follow the same model, ensuring a unified experience for users and developers.
This message is associated with Roadmap ID 505791 and applies to Teams for Windows desktop, Teams for Mac desktop, Teams for the web, and Teams for iOS/Android.
When this will happen:
Targeted Release: Rollout begins in mid-October 2025 and is expected to complete in late October 2025
General availability (Worldwide): Rollout begins in mid-January 2026 (previously early November 2025) and is expected to complete in late January 2026 (previously late November 2025).

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

Created:
2025-10-08

updated:
2025-11-15

Public Preview Start Date

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Task Type

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Docu to Check

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MS How does it affect me

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MS Preperations

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Increased User Confusion
Users may be confused about the new app addition process, leading to frustration and decreased productivity if they are not properly informed about the changes.
   - roles: End Users, Helpdesk Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=505791

Governance and Compliance Risks
Without proper preparation, there may be governance issues as users could add unauthorized apps to Shared Channels, leading to potential data security risks.
   - roles: Admins, Compliance Officers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=505791

Increased Support Tickets
The change may lead to an influx of support tickets as users encounter issues with app permissions and functionality in Shared Channels, overwhelming IT support teams.
   - roles: Helpdesk Staff, IT Support
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=505791

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced User Experience through App Integration
The introduction of apps in Shared Channels will allow users to access essential tools and resources directly within their collaborative spaces, leading to a more streamlined workflow and improved productivity. This will enhance user satisfaction as they will no longer need to switch between different applications or platforms.
   - next-steps: Identify key apps that can be integrated into Shared Channels. Collaborate with department heads to gather feedback on app usage and requirements. Develop a plan for app integration and user training.
   - roles: Team Leaders, Project Managers, End Users
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=505791

Improved Governance and Compliance
With new governance controls for app usage in Shared Channels, organizations can better manage app permissions and ensure compliance with internal policies. This opportunity allows for tighter security and oversight over which apps are used in collaborative environments, minimizing risks associated with data sharing.
   - next-steps: Review and update current app governance policies to align with the new features. Conduct training sessions for admins on managing app permissions effectively in Shared Channels.
   - roles: IT Administrators, Compliance Officers, Security Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=505791

Optimized IT Administrative Tasks
The requirement for apps to be added on a per-channel basis allows IT to better control and customize the app experience for different teams. This can reduce administrative overhead by ensuring only necessary apps are available in specific contexts, potentially leading to less support needed for app-related issues.
   - next-steps: Analyze current app usage across teams and identify redundancies. Develop a strategy for app management that focuses on channel-specific needs, ensuring IT resources are allocated efficiently.
   - roles: IT Managers, System Administrators, Support Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=505791

Potentional Risks**

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Data Protection**

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IT Security**

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Hypothetical Work Council Statement**

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DPIA Draft**

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explanation for non-techies**

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