MC1194083 – Microsoft Planner: New service plan to support task-based chat

Product:

Planner, Project, Project Online, Teams

Platform:

Online, Teams And Surface Devices, Web, World tenant

Status:

In development

Change type:

New feature, User impact, Admin impact

Links:

512432

Details:

Summary:
Microsoft Planner will introduce a new service plan enabling task-based chat for better collaboration, rolling out worldwide in early January 2026. It will be included in specific Planner, Project, and Dynamics 365 licenses and enabled by default. No immediate admin action is needed.

Details:
[Introduction]
We're introducing a new service plan for Microsoft Planner that enables task-based chat, allowing teammates working on the same plan to communicate directly about tasks. This update improves collaboration and coordination for shared work managed in Planner.

This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 512432.
[When this will happen]
General Availability (Worldwide): The new service plan will start rolling out in early January 2026, with the task chat feature becoming available shortly after.

Change Category:
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Scope:
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Release Phase:
General Availability

Created:
2025-12-11

updated:
2025-12-11

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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Pictures

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summary for non-techies**

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Direct effects for Operations**

User Confusion
Users may be confused by the sudden introduction of task-based chat without prior training or documentation updates, leading to ineffective use of the new feature.
   - roles: End Users, Helpdesk Staff
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=512432

Increased Support Tickets
The lack of preparation may result in an influx of support tickets as users encounter issues or have questions about the new feature, overwhelming helpdesk resources.
   - roles: Helpdesk Staff, IT Support
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=512432

Reduced Productivity
Users may experience reduced productivity as they navigate the new feature without adequate training, leading to miscommunication and delays in task completion.
   - roles: End Users, Project Managers
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=512432

Configutation Options**

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Opportunities**

Enhanced Collaboration through Task-Based Chat
The introduction of task-based chat in Microsoft Planner will significantly improve real-time communication among team members. This allows users to discuss specific tasks directly within the context of their work, reducing the need for external communication tools and enhancing productivity.
   - next-steps: Conduct workshops to train teams on utilizing task-based chat effectively. Update internal documentation to reflect the new feature and best practices for usage.
   - roles: Project Managers, Team Leaders, Collaborative Teams
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=512432

Improved User Training and Documentation
With the new task-based chat feature, there is an opportunity to enhance user training programs and documentation. This ensures that all users are aware of the new functionalities and can leverage them to improve their workflow.
   - next-steps: Develop updated training materials and schedule training sessions for all relevant staff. Include practical examples of how to use the task-based chat feature effectively.
   - roles: Training Coordinators, IT Support Staff, Team Members
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=512432

Streamlined IT Support for New Features
Preparing helpdesk staff for potential user inquiries about the new task-based chat feature can streamline IT support operations. This will reduce response times and improve user satisfaction as staff will be equipped to handle questions effectively.
   - next-steps: Organize a briefing session for helpdesk staff to familiarize them with the new feature and potential user issues. Create a FAQ document to assist in addressing common questions.
   - roles: Helpdesk Staff, IT Support Managers, System Administrators
   - references: https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&searchterms=512432

Potentional Risks**

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IT Security**

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explanation for non-techies**

Microsoft is introducing a new feature in Microsoft Planner that will allow team members to chat directly about tasks. Think of it like adding a chat function to your to-do list, where you can discuss each item with your colleagues. This new service plan is set to roll out worldwide in early January 2026 and will be included in certain Microsoft Planner, Project, and Dynamics 365 licenses.

Imagine you’re working on a group project, and each team member has specific tasks to complete. Traditionally, you might email back and forth or use a separate chat app to discuss these tasks. With this new feature, you can chat directly within the task itself, making it easier to keep all related conversations in one place. It’s like having sticky notes on a shared whiteboard where everyone can write comments and suggestions directly next to the task they’re working on.

This update will be automatically enabled for those with eligible licenses, so there’s no need for immediate administrative action. However, it might be helpful to update any internal training materials or documentation to include this new chat capability. Additionally, informing helpdesk staff about this change can prepare them for any questions users might have.

There are no specific compliance considerations identified with this update, but it’s always a good idea to review new features to ensure they align with your organization’s policies. This new task-based chat feature aims to streamline communication and improve collaboration within teams, making it easier to discuss work and notify teammates about what needs attention.