Microsoft has started testing a new update that brings custom backgrounds support to its Teams web app. With the latest update released in the public preview channel yesterday, Microsoft Teams users can now use Edge or Chrome to add background effects to video calls and meetings.
Currently, the Microsoft Teams web app only allows users to choose from pre-set background images, and it doesn’t provide an option to upload their own custom backgrounds. The release brings the Microsoft Teams web app up to par with its desktop counterpart, which gained custom backgrounds support last year.
To change the background during a meeting, you will need to navigate to the meeting controls and click “More actions.” Then, select the “Show background effects” option and choose from the list of available images. You’ll be able to preview your background to see how it looks and finally click the “Apply” button.
The new background effects feature is rolling out to all public preview users, and there is currently no ETA on when the company will allow users to upload pictures from their PCs. Meanwhile, Microsoft has published a step-by-step guide to help IT admins set up the Video effects policy in their tenants, and you can find more details on this support page.
