Classic Teams is Going Away... Here’s What You Need to Know

Microsoft is officially retiring Classic Teams on July 1, 2025—and businesses still using the legacy experience need to ...

Holli Houseworth Langford
Jun 25, 2025

Teams new

Microsoft is officially retiring Classic Teams on July 1, 2025—and businesses still using the legacy experience need to act fast. The switch to New Teams isn’t just a cosmetic update; it’s a performance-driven overhaul that unlocks faster collaboration, better usability, and tighter integrations. Here’s what you need to know.

 

Why is Classic Teams Going Away?

Classic Teams, while groundbreaking when launched, has reached its limits in performance, scalability, and usability. Microsoft designed New Teams from the ground up to meet today’s demands for speed, flexibility, and hybrid work capabilities. Starting July 1, 2025, Classic Teams will no longer be supported or accessible.

Classic Teams vs. New Teams: What’s Different?
Feature
Classic Teams
New Teams
Performance

Slower load times, heavier resource usage

 

Up to 2x faster load time, 50% less memory usage

 
User Interface

 

Heavier, sometimes clunky navigation

 

Streamlined, intuitive UI with modern design

 
Multi-Account Support

 

Switching accounts requires sign-in/sign-out

 

True multi-tenant support without logging out

 
App Integrations

 

Limited third-party integrations

 

Enhanced app support, including Loop components

 
Meeting Experience

 

Stable but basic

 

Improved with new views, background performance, and breakout enhancements
Security & Updates

Monthly updates, less agile

 

Faster deployment of security patches and features

 
Benefits of Moving to New Teams
  • Speed & Efficiency: Load times are noticeably faster, even on older hardware.
  • Simplified Multitasking: Open multiple chats or channels in separate windows.
  • Cross-Tenant Collaboration: Seamlessly work across organizations without switching accounts.
  • Improved IT Management: Centralized controls and easier deployment for admins.
  • Enhanced Accessibility: Better screen reader and keyboard navigation support.
How to Move to New Teams

Migrating to the new version of Teams is generally straightforward—Microsoft has made the transition as seamless as possible.

Step-by-Step Transition Guide:

  1. Check Compatibility
    Ensure your environment meets the system requirements for New Teams. Most environments with Microsoft 365 already qualify.
  2. Enable the New Teams Toggle
    In the Teams desktop app, look for the “Try the new Teams” toggle in the top-left corner and enable it. Encourage users to begin using it regularly.
  3. Roll Out Organization-Wide
    Admins can use the Teams Admin Center to roll out New Teams to users, either in stages or organization-wide.
  4. Update Training Materials
    While the new interface is intuitive, some basic user training can ease the transition and reduce IT tickets.
  5. Monitor and Optimize
    After migration, use analytics in the Admin Center to track adoption and performance.
Final Thoughts

The July 1st deadline is a firm one—Classic Teams will be sunset, and only New Teams will remain. The good news? The new experience is faster, lighter, and built for the modern workforce.

If your business hasn’t made the switch yet, now is the time.

Need Help Migrating?

At Cloud Cover, we specialize in Microsoft 365 migrations, training, and IT automation. If you’re looking for hands-on support transitioning to New Teams, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to ensure your team is ready before July 1st.

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