MC1182004 – (Updated) Microsoft Teams: Chat with anyone with an email address

Product:

Teams

Platform:

Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, Online, Windows Desktop, World tenant

Status:

In development

Change type:

Admin impact, New feature, Updated message, User impact

Links:

513271

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft Teams will enable users to chat with anyone via email, even non-Teams users, who join as guests. This feature, enabled by default for eligible licenses, rolls out starting November 2025 and globally in January 2026. Organizations can disable it via TeamsMessagingPolicy if needed.

Details:
Updated November 12, 2025: We have added clarification for customers impacted by this feature and updated the content. Thank you for your patience.
[Introduction]
We're introducing a new capability in Microsoft Teams that allows users to start a chat with anyone who has an email address-even if they're not currently using Teams. The recipient will receive an email invitation to join the chat session as a guest, enabling seamless communication and collaboration. This update simplifies external engagement and supports flexible work scenarios.
This capability will be available to small and medium business customers with a Teams Essentials, Business Basic, Business Standard, or Business Premium license.
This feature will be available across Android, Desktop, iOS, Linux, and Mac platforms.
This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 513271.
[When this will happen:]
Targeted Release: Rollout will begin in early November 2025 and is expected to complete by mid-November 2025.
General Availability (Worldwide): Rollout will begin in January 2026.

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

Created:
2025-11-01

updated:
2025-11-15

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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MS Urgency

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MS workload name

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linked item details

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

Increased Security Risks
Allowing external users to join chats may expose sensitive information if not properly managed, leading to potential data breaches.
   - roles: IT Security Manager, Compliance Officer
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/security/blog/2021/06/15/5-ways-to-secure-your-microsoft-teams-environment/

User Confusion
Users may be confused about the new chat capabilities, leading to misuse or frustration if they are not adequately trained or informed.
   - roles: End Users, Helpdesk Support
   - references: https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2021/03/01/the-top-5-microsoft-teams-features-you-need-to-know-about/?sh=5c1c1c4e7b8e

Increased Support Tickets
The introduction of this feature may lead to a surge in support requests as users encounter issues or have questions about the new functionality.
   - roles: Helpdesk Support, IT Operations Manager
   - references: https://www.techradar.com/news/how-to-reduce-it-support-tickets

Compliance Challenges
Engaging with external users may complicate compliance with data protection regulations, especially if sensitive data is shared without proper controls.
   - roles: Compliance Officer, Data Protection Officer
   - references: https://www.csoonline.com/article/3531230/how-to-ensure-compliance-in-microsoft-teams.html

Performance Issues
The addition of external users may strain system resources, potentially leading to performance degradation for internal users if not properly managed.
   - roles: IT Operations Manager, System Administrator
   - references: https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-improve-microsoft-teams-performance/

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced Collaboration with External Partners
The new chat feature allows seamless communication with external partners, clients, and stakeholders who do not use Teams. This can lead to improved collaboration on projects and faster decision-making processes.
   - next-steps: Create guidelines for using the new chat feature with external contacts. Train users on best practices for engaging with external parties via Teams. Monitor the usage and gather feedback for continuous improvement.
   - roles: Project Managers, Sales Teams, Customer Support
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoftteams/chat-with-people-not-using-teams, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=513271

Improved User Experience for External Communication
By enabling chats with anyone who has an email address, users can now communicate more freely without needing to set up additional accounts or platforms, thus enhancing user experience and reducing friction in external communications.
   - next-steps: Update internal communication policies to reflect this capability. Ensure all users are informed about the feature and its benefits. Collect user feedback to understand the impact on communication efficiency.
   - roles: Marketing Teams, HR Teams, Executive Leadership
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoftteams/chat-with-people-not-using-teams, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=513271

Streamlined IT Support and Documentation
The introduction of this feature necessitates an update to internal documentation and training materials, which can lead to a more streamlined IT support process as users become more adept at utilizing Teams for external communications.
   - next-steps: Revise and distribute updated documentation regarding the new chat feature. Provide training sessions for IT support staff to ensure they are equipped to assist users effectively. Establish a feedback loop for continuous improvement of support materials.
   - roles: IT Support Teams, Training Coordinators, Documentation Specialists
   - references: https://learn.microsoft.com/microsoftteams/chat-with-people-not-using-teams, https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=513271

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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