July 11, 2024, 4:44 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The creators of Windows have announced plans to soon remove Office Connectors from Microsoft Teams. The short notice has angered many users.
Many people use Microsoft Teams for communication and organization. The program is especially popular in work environments due to its many useful features, including the integration of third-party services. However, the creators of Windows have now announced that the so-called Office Connectors will be removed from Microsoft Teams–and very soon.
Office Connectors to Disappear from Microsoft Teams This Summer
This information comes from a new announcement by the company on July 3. It describes the Office Connectors in Microsoft Teams as a significant convenience, allowing users to receive updates from other services such as Trello, Wunderlist, or GitHub directly in the chat.
Nevertheless, starting August 15, 2024, the company will begin removing the Office Connectors from Microsoft Teams. As an alternative, they recommend Power Automate, citing that it offers more capabilities, is based on a forward-looking architecture, and meets current security standards. To ensure services continue to function well, users should make the switch in a timely manner.
The replacement of Office Connectors in Microsoft Teams with Power Automate will occur in two phases: Starting August 15, it will no longer be possible to create new connectors. In the second phase, beginning October 1, all existing connectors will cease to function. Those affected should follow the instructions shared by Microsoft in the announcement.
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Even though the reasoning seems sensible, there are already critical voices regarding the planned change. The relatively short lead time is particularly upsetting to some, as can be read in the comments on the announcement.
Two of the three months leading up to the transition fall during the peak vacation and holiday season in the U.S. As one user notes, many employees will not be working during this time. The fact that the transition to something unfamiliar is expected during this period is met with little understanding. Another user simply calls it a “stupid decision.”
Another user also pointed out the financial aspect. Power Automate is only available as a paid subscription, whereas Office Connectors were part of the Microsoft 365 package and could be used at no additional cost.
Affected Online Community Wants to Pressure Microsoft
The news is also causing a stir on the discussion platform Reddit. Apparently, Power Automate is seen as a downgrade because updates cannot be sent directly to a private channel, as was possible with Office Connectors in Microsoft Teams.
As negative reactions continue to mount, some users hope this will prompt Microsoft to reconsider. However, the company has yet to respond to the many complaints.