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Microsoft Teams gets a new thread view for a better overview
Microsoft Teams will soon have a new standard view for conversations in channels. In future, messages will be bundled into threads to improve the overview, especially in busy channels, and to better structure parallel discussions.
According to the entry in the Microsoft 365 roadmap, the launch of the function is scheduled for June. According to a message in the M365 Admin Center, the rollout will begin at the end of June in a preview phase. The new feature should be available to all Teams users worldwide by the end of August.
The thread view is automatically activated by default. However, when creating new channels, Teams administrators can still decide whether they would prefer to use the previous layout, in which all messages in a conversation appear chronologically one below the other.
How does the new thread view work?
In the new thread view, the posts of a conversation only become visible when you click on the corresponding thread. They then open in a separate column on the right-hand side.
Whether the function is available depends on the organization’s settings: Administrators can use a policy to determine whether the thread view is activated for certain user groups or for everyone. They can also specify that it must be used on a mandatory basis.
What are the advantages of the new thread view?
Better clarity in busy channels: Instead of an endless list of messages, you only see the main topics at a glance. Each thread represents a separate discussion, so parallel conversations no longer get mixed up.
More efficient communication: You can reply to specific topics without your message getting lost in other discussions. This saves time when searching for relevant information and prevents misunderstandings.
Less distraction: As you only see the thread titles, you are not distracted by every single message. You consciously decide which discussions are relevant to you.
Follow-up of discussions: Longer discussions remain coherent and are easier to follow. New team members can familiarize themselves with ongoing projects more quickly.
How it helps in everyday working life
Project teams: Different aspects of the project can be discussed in parallel without interfering with each other. One thread for budget issues, one for scheduling, one for technical details.
Support channels: Each request becomes its own thread, so solutions don’t get lost in other problems and support staff can work more efficiently.
Cross-departmental collaboration: Marketing, sales and development can deal with their specific topics in separate threads, while everyone remains in the same channel and can join in the discussion if necessary.
Microsoft Teams threads vs. posts: The comparison
| Threads | Posts | |
|---|---|---|
| Clarity | Only main topics visible | All news chronologically |
| Parallel discussions | Separate threads possible | Topics get mixed up |
| Notifications | Thread-specific | Channel-wide |
| Ideal for | Project work, support, structured discussions | Fast updates, small teams, informal chats |
Frequently asked questions about Microsoft Teams threads
Can I deactivate Microsoft Teams threads?
Yes, Microsoft Teams threads can be deactivated at any time. Channel owners and administrators can switch back to the classic posts view in the channel settings under “Layout”. Existing threaded conversations are retained and remain accessible.
Can I activate threads in old Microsoft Teams?
Yes, Microsoft Teams threads can also be activated in existing Teams, but with restrictions. Teams that were created before the update will initially retain the classic posts view. However, channel owners can manually switch to the thread view. Existing conversations are automatically converted into threads.
Can I ban Microsoft Teams threads globally?
Yes, Microsoft Teams threads can be prohibited organization-wide. IT administrators can disable the thread feature for the entire organization via the Microsoft 365 Admin Center or PowerShell commands. This is done via the Teams messaging policies. Existing threads remain readable, but new ones cannot be created.
What happens to existing conversations in Microsoft Teams threads?
All data is retained in Microsoft Teams Threads. No messages are lost when switching between views. In the Thread view, related messages are automatically grouped as a thread. In the Posts view, all messages are displayed chronologically again.
Can users set Microsoft Teams threads individually?
No, Microsoft Teams threads cannot be set individually per user. The view is set per channel, not per user. All team members see the channel in the same view (threads or posts). Individual settings are not possible to avoid confusion.
Are Microsoft Teams threads available in all plans?
Yes, Microsoft Teams Threads are available in all Microsoft Teams editions – from Microsoft Teams (free) to Enterprise plans. No additional licenses are required for the Thread feature. The availability depends only on the administrator settings.
Is it possible to automatically follow all new threads in a channel?
Yes, under “Channel notifications” in the channel settings, it is possible to automatically follow all new threads and the corresponding replies.
Jan Scheiter, Projektleiter
Dein Ansprechpartner für Microsoft Teams in Osnabrück
Further information and sources
Detailed instructions on how to use threads in Microsoft Teams can be found in the official Microsoft documentation: Following threads in Microsoft Teams
There you will learn, among other things:
- How to create and reply to threads
- How you can follow important threads
- Which notification settings are available
- Tips for effective use in teams
