Microsoft is preparing to introduce a groundbreaking feature in Teams that will revolutionise how hybrid workers manage their presence information.
The new capability will automatically identify and update users’ work locations by detecting their connection to organisational Wi-Fi networks, eliminating the need for manual status updates.
Scheduled for deployment in December 2025, this opt-in functionality addresses a common frustration among hybrid employees: keeping their location information up to date.
The system works by mapping specific Wi-Fi networks to physical office buildings within an organisation.
When employees connect their laptops to a recognised network, Teams instantly updates their status to reflect their current building location.
This automation helps colleagues quickly identify who is working on-site, facilitating spontaneous meetings and collaboration opportunities that might otherwise be missed.
The technology extends beyond simple Wi-Fi detection. Organisations can configure the system to recognise connected peripherals such as monitors and docking stations, providing additional data points for accurate location identification.
This multi-layered approach ensures reliable detection while maintaining user privacy and control.
Microsoft has designed this feature with privacy considerations at its core. Location updates only occur during working hours as defined in users’ Outlook calendars, and all location data automatically clears at the end of each workday.
This prevents any tracking outside business hours and ensures the system serves its intended purpose of enhancing workplace collaboration rather than monitoring employee movements.
The feature remains disabled by default, requiring deliberate activation at multiple levels.
IT administrators must first enable it at the tenant level using PowerShell commands like New-CsTeamsWorkLocationDetectionPolicy, and individual users must then opt in through a consent prompt within the Teams application.
Even after enabling the feature, employees retain full control over whether to share their location with coworkers, providing flexibility for different work situations.
Organizations interested in implementing this capability should begin preparing now by mapping their Wi-Fi SSIDs and office devices to specific building names.
The general availability rollout is expected to start in early December and complete by mid-month across all regions.
Microsoft plans to release comprehensive documentation before launch, including detailed guides on policy management and configuration best practices.
This update, tracked under Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID 488800, represents Microsoft’s continued commitment to enhancing hybrid work environments.
By reducing the friction associated with location management, Teams aims to bridge the gap between digital collaboration and physical presence, ultimately improving coordination and efficiency for modern workplaces navigating flexible work arrangements.
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