Microsoft Teams: Mobile version redirects opening of links to Edge

Microsoft wants to push its Edge web browser with all its might and is using various channels for this. On smartphones, Teams is supposed to ask which programs should be used to open non-Office documents and PDF links. And Microsoft's Edge, the web browser based on the Chromium project, should always be the first choice.

Microsoft has now adjusted the schedule for distributing this change in the Microsoft 365 Message Center (MC1216263, copy at merill.net). Microsoft had already announced the “feature” in January of this year.

Schedule adjusted

When users tap on a non-Office or PDF link, a pop-up dialog should appear at the bottom of the screen, where they have to choose a browser. When selecting Microsoft Edge, they will be prompted to install the browser if it is not already on the device. Microsoft states that this is intended to improve security and user experience.

Originally, Microsoft planned to start distribution in February and complete it by the end of February. This has now apparently taken a little longer. The company now intends to finish distributing the updated Teams mobile versions for Android and iOS by early May.

Settings to prevent

In the updated Teams app, users will be able to select the preferred app for opening directly in the app settings (found by tapping their profile in the top left in Teams Mobile) under “Links in Teams.” Admins can manage this with PowerShell. The policy is called “TeamsMobilityPolicy,” the attribute is “LinksInTeams.” The values are “OfferBrowserOptions,” which bothers users with prompts, or “UseSystemDefaults,” which deactivates the prompt.

(dmk)