Microsoft Teams may soon track if you’re in office using Wi-Fi: Here’s what changes
Microsoft Teams is expected to roll out a new feature that automatically updates users' work location based on their office Wi-Fi connection. The update is aimed at improving hybrid work visibility, but it has already sparked privacy concerns. Teams is also getting AI-powered Copilot enhancements, saved messages and custom keyboard shortcuts as part of its productivity expansion.
New Delhi: Microsoft Teams is set to become more context-aware in the workplace, with new features that go beyond messaging and meetings. According to a listing spotted by TechRadar on the Microsoft 365 roadmap, the platform could soon detect when an employee is physically present in the office and automatically update their work location. The feature will rely on Wi-Fi detection, switching the user’s status from remote to on-site when their device connects to the organisation’s internal network.
This capability is expected to start rolling out globally in December 2025 for both Windows and macOS versions of Teams. While Microsoft says the update will improve workplace transparency and hybrid scheduling, it may also reignite privacy concerns, as employees may lose the option to remain discreet about their exact location inside office premises.
Teams to automatically detect office presence
The new feature will automatically mark an employee’s work location depending on the specific office building they connect to. This would help managers and colleagues know who is physically present for meetings, collaborations or in-person discussions. The idea is to reduce confusion in hybrid work environments, where scheduling often depends on knowing who is working remotely and who is available onsite.
However, concerns are already being raised around tracking. Automatic location detection based on Wi-Fi could be viewed as intrusive, especially in cases where employees may want flexibility in how they are seen on the platform.
Other productivity-focused features
Microsoft is also working on several other upgrades to improve Teams for everyday users.
Recent additions include a Save message option that allows users to bookmark important chats for easy access. This feature is designed for quick referencing, especially during fast-moving conversations or long threads.
Another update in progress will let users create their own keyboard shortcuts. This means that frequently used functions like reactions, emojis, and formatting tools can be activated faster, without navigating menus.
Copilot integrations expected in 2026
Microsoft is expanding its AI presence in Teams through deeper Copilot integration. The company plans to enable Copilot to access on-screen information during recorded meetings. Once activated, the AI will be able to review presentations, chat transcripts and meeting notes in real time to answer questions or summarise content.
For example, users will be able to ask, Which products had the highest sales or What feedback was given on each slide. Copilot will be able to respond using data that appeared during the meeting itself.
The Copilot screen-context feature is expected to start rolling out globally in August 2026 across Android, iOS, Windows, macOS and web platforms.
A push toward hybrid work automation
Microsoft continues to align Teams with the needs of hybrid offices. From AI-driven meeting summaries to automated location tracking, the platform is being built to manage digital and physical workspaces at the same time.
The workplace status feature could become one of the most debated additions when it rolls out next year. Some see it as a time-saving tool for modern management, while others view it as the beginning of deeper employee monitoring integrated directly into productivity platforms.