Microsoft’s 365 Audio Conferencing feature, which used to cost $4 per user, is now available for free on Teams. Now you can make those important conference calls without worrying about racking up an expensive bill.

What Is Audio Conferencing?

Audio Conferencing enables users to dial into meetings from their mobile phones as an alternative to the Teams app on a laptop or desktop. This tool is especially useful for situations when meeting attendees are not in front of a computer or have limited internet access.

Audio Conferencing is available as a free add-on for Office 365 or Microsoft 365 plans, which also include Teams. Audio Conferencing is already included in Office 365 E5 and Microsoft 365 E5.

However, if you do not have an Office 365 or Microsoft 365 plan, you will have to purchase the plan to get Audio Conferencing as a free add-on.

What Does the Teams Audio Conferencing Feature Offer?

For starters, you can now host audio conferences with up to 250 people at once.  

In addition to the increased capacity, you also get many other features, including:

• Dial-in numbers from over 70 countries: No matter where you are in the world, you can join the call using a local dial-in number. No more international calling fees.
• Call controls: The person hosting the call can mute or unmute participants, as well as start or stop recordings.

• In-call support: If you encounter any issues during the call, you can contact Microsoft support directly from within Teams.
• Dial out: Meeting attendees can add other users to the meeting by using the Teams app.
• Call me: This feature allows you to join the audio of any meeting using your mobile device.  
• Increased privacy: Know that your meeting is protected, as it is only accessible to users with the conference ID.
• Hands-free option: Pair Teams with any Bluetooth device so that you can stay connected while being hands-free.

Now, some of you might be wondering, “I already pay for the legacy audio conferencing feature. Do I get anything for free?"  

If you're currently paying for the legacy audio conferencing feature, you can contact Microsoft to see if you're eligible for a refund.  

Alternatively, if you're up for renewal soon, Microsoft will reach out to you to discuss your options. Or, reach out directly to Opkalla to begin the process for making the switch.

Why Is Microsoft Offering This Feature for Free?

There are a few reasons Teams Audio Conferencing is now free.

For one thing, with more and more people working remotely, the demand for virtual conferencing solutions has skyrocketed.  

By offering this feature for free, Microsoft can compete with other popular video conferencing platforms, like Zoom and Google Meet.  

Additionally, Microsoft has been pushing Teams as a one-stop-shop for all your collaboration needs. This move helps solidify that position.

Everyday Benefits of Microsoft Teams Audio Conferencing

Now, let's talk about how this new feature can benefit you daily.  

Imagine you're working from home and need to meet with your team. Or maybe you're a small business owner who needs to communicate with clients or vendors regularly.

Instead of coordinating everyone's schedules and finding a meeting room, you can now schedule a free Teams audio conference.  This can save you a ton of money in the long run. Plus it makes it easier for you to keep in touch with everyone you need to.

How Do I Set Up Teams Audio Conferencing for My Users?

You will only need to set up Teams Audio Conferencing for users who intend to schedule and hold meetings. Users who are simply dialing in do not need any additional licenses or set up.  

Those who do intend on leading meetings will need additional licenses and service numbers assigned to them.

Opkalla is happy to guide you through this licensing process as your Technology Advisor and Microsoft CSP- Contact us today!

The Takeaway

Microsoft Teams Audio Conferencing Free is a game-changer for anyone who needs to communicate with others remotely.  

With its increased capacity, global dial-in numbers, and host of other features, it's a no-brainer for anyone who wants to save time and money.  

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