Microsoft Teams | VDI for Azure Virtual Desktops/Windows 365 and Citrix: macOS support with new SlimCore optimization

Microsoft Teams now supports macOS with a new SlimCore media engine for Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, and Citrix, offering improved performance, advanced meeting features, telephony enhancements, and better supportability. General availability is late May to June 2026, requiring updated Teams and Citrix versions.

2026-05-27T18:50:28.153Z

<p style="">Updated May 27, 2026: We have updated the timeline for General availability, minimum requirements and known issues. Thank you for your patience.</p><p style=""><b>[Introduction]</b> </p><p>Microsoft Teams optimization with the new SlimCore-based media engine is now available for macOS endpoints connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments. This redesigned Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution replaces the legacy WebRTC-based optimization and delivers enhanced performance, reliability, security, and streamlined support. It also simplifies media engine updates without requiring frequent upgrades to VDI infrastructure or clients.</p><p>This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&amp;searchterms=502524" target="_blank">502524</a>.</p> <b>[When this will happen:]</b> <ul> <li><b style="">Targeted Release</b><b>:</b>&nbsp;Began late February 2026, completed late February 2026</li> <li><b>General Availability (Worldwide, GCC):</b> Begins late May 2026 (previously mid-April), completes late June 2026 (previously late April).</li> </ul> <b>[How this affects your organization:]</b> <ul> <li><b>Who is affected:</b> macOS users connecting to AVD, Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments using Microsoft Teams.</li> <li><b>What will happen:</b> <ul> <li>Teams will use the SlimCore media engine instead of WebRTC for optimized VDI experiences.</li> <li>Advanced meeting capabilities: <ul> <li>Gallery View 3x3 and 7x7</li> <li>Background images from My Organization</li> <li>1080p video resolution</li> <li>Include computer sound while screen sharing</li> <li>Hardware acceleration on the endpoint</li> </ul> </li> <li>Telephony and voice capabilities: <ul> <li>Location Based Routing and Media Bypass</li> <li>Quality of Service (QoS)</li> <li>Noise suppression</li> </ul> </li> <li>Better supportability: <ul> <li>Teams Admin Center integration</li> <li>Call Quality Dashboard support</li> <li>Simplified media engine updates via Plugin</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <b>[What you can do to prepare:]</b> <ul> <li>Ensure users have Teams version 26072.x.x.x or higher (for Citrix).</li><li>Make sure Teams on the Virtual Machine meets all the connectivity requirements described in Microsoft 365 URLs and IP address ranges&nbsp;</li><li>Make sure the user’s device meets all the connectivity requirements described in New VDI solution for Teams - Microsoft Teams | Microsoft Learn&nbsp;</li> <li>For AVD/Windows 365: <ul> <li>Install the non-Store Windows App client version 11.3.5 (.pkg file), via this link: (<a href="https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=868963">Download</a>).<br>Windows App (non-Store) can auto-update by default if Administrators have not disabled this functionality.<br></li><li>Users not meeting the latest minimum requirements would still be optimized, but only through the AVD Media Optimization (WebRTC).</li><li><i>Note</i>: Store version does not support SlimCore optimization.</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>Figure i. Download page for non-store Client</i></p><p><img src="https://cxcs.microsoft.net/file/ccp/en-us/11046fca-37ea-4658-8d1a-6e3ba6631613" style="width: 400px;" alt="user settings"></p><p></p><p></p><ul> </ul> <p></p><ul> <li>For Citrix DaaS/CVAD: <ul> <li>Ensure Citrix Workspace App version 2603 or higher is installed.</li> <li>Install the Plugin: </li><ul> <li>Install the Plugin on top of CWA 2603+:<ul><li>Available as a standalone component (<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere" target="_blank">Download</a>)<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere." target="_blank">.</a></li><li>Alternatively, deploy via Global App Config service or <a href="https://docs.citrix.com/citrix-virtual-apps-desktops/multimedia/virtual-channel-plugin-manager.html" target="_blank">Virtual Channel Plugin Manager</a> (requires CWA 2508).</li></ul></li></ul><li>After deployment, users will be upgraded to the new optimization stack automatically after restarting Teams once rollout begins.</li><li>Update internal documentation and inform helpdesk staff.</li></ul></li></ul><p><b>[Known Issues and Limitations]&nbsp;</b></p><ul><li>HID (coming soon)&nbsp;</li><li>Outgoing screensharing in End-to-End Encrypted meetings is disabled&nbsp;</li><li>Share System audio (coming soon)&nbsp;</li><li>During the first time a user does app sharing, the presenter’s mouse cursor is sluggish. Stopping and resharing fixes the issue.&nbsp;</li><li>Anonymous users attending a meeting where Captchas are enforced are not able to share their screens.&nbsp;</li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>[Compliance considerations:]</b></p><p></p><p></p><table> <tbody><tr><th>Question</th><th>Impact</th></tr> <tr><td>Does the change alter how admins can monitor,</td><td>Additional monitoring and reporting capabilities are exposed in Teams Admin Center and Call Quality Dashboard, including call/meeting details and Plugin/SlimCore version tracking.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <p></p>

Microsoft Teams now supports SlimCore media engine optimization for macOS users on Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, and Citrix, replacing WebRTC. This update enhances performance, meeting features, telephony, and supportability, with rollout from February to April 2026. Required client versions and plugins must be installed for full benefits.

2026-04-02T17:31:40.537Z

<p style="">Updated April 2, 2026: We have updated the timeline and minimum requirements. Thank you for your patience.</p><p style=""><b>[Introduction]</b> </p><p>Microsoft Teams optimization with the new SlimCore-based media engine is now available for macOS endpoints connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments. This redesigned Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution replaces the legacy WebRTC-based optimization and delivers enhanced performance, reliability, security, and streamlined support. It also simplifies media engine updates without requiring frequent upgrades to VDI infrastructure or clients.</p><p>This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&amp;searchterms=502524" target="_blank">502524</a>.</p> <b>[When this will happen:]</b> <ul> <li><b style="">Targeted Release</b><b>:</b>&nbsp;Begins late February 2026 (previously mid-February), completes late February 2026 (previously late January).</li> <li><b>General Availability (Worldwide, GCC):</b> Begins mid-April 2026 (previously late March), completes late April 2026 (previously mid-April).</li> </ul> <b>[How this affects your organization:]</b> <ul> <li><b>Who is affected:</b> macOS users connecting to AVD, Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments using Microsoft Teams.</li> <li><b>What will happen:</b> <ul> <li>Teams will use the SlimCore media engine instead of WebRTC for optimized VDI experiences.</li> <li>Advanced meeting capabilities: <ul> <li>Gallery View 3x3 and 7x7</li> <li>Background images from My Organization</li> <li>1080p video resolution</li> <li>Include computer sound while screen sharing</li> <li>Hardware acceleration on the endpoint</li> </ul> </li> <li>Telephony and voice capabilities: <ul> <li>Location Based Routing and Media Bypass</li> <li>Quality of Service (QoS)</li> <li>Noise suppression</li> </ul> </li> <li>Better supportability: <ul> <li>Teams Admin Center integration</li> <li>Call Quality Dashboard support</li> <li>Simplified media engine updates via Plugin</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <b>[What you can do to prepare:]</b> <ul> <li>Ensure users have Teams version 26032.x.x.x or higher (for Citrix).</li><li>Ensure users have Teams version 26072.x.x.x or higher (for Azure Virtual Desktops / Windows 365).</li> <li>For AVD/Windows 365: <ul> <li>Install the non-Store Windows App client version 11.3.4 (.pkg file), which will be available on the week of April 6th 2026, via this link: (<a href="https://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=868963">Download</a>). <br>This link currently points to an older version (11.3.2) but will be automatically updated by Microsoft once 11.3.4 is live.<br>Windows App (non-Store) can auto-update by default if Administrators have not disabled this functionality.<br>Afterwards, only the latest Windows App 11.3.4 version for Mac will support SlimCore optimization, which may take a few hours to get into effect.</li><li>Users not meeting the latest minimum requirements would still be optimized, but only through the AVD Media Optimization (WebRTC).</li><li><i>Note</i>: Store version does not support SlimCore optimization.</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>Figure i. Download page for non-store Client</i></p><p><img src="https://cxcs.microsoft.net/file/ccp/en-us/686b29d7-8ebb-49b2-bd27-87b69961f55d" style="width: 400px;" alt="user settings"></p><p></p><p></p><ul> </ul> <p></p><ul> <li>For Citrix DaaS/CVAD: <ul> <li>Ensure Citrix Workspace App version 2505 or higher is installed.</li> <li>Install the Plugin: </li><ul> <li>Install the Plugin on top of CWA 2505+:<ul><li>Available as a standalone component (<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere" target="_blank">Download</a>)<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere." target="_blank">.</a></li><li>Alternatively, deploy via Global App Config service or <a href="https://docs.citrix.com/citrix-virtual-apps-desktops/multimedia/virtual-channel-plugin-manager.html" target="_blank">Virtual Channel Plugin Manager</a> (requires CWA 2508).</li></ul></li></ul><li>After deployment, users will be upgraded to the new optimization stack automatically after restarting Teams once rollout begins.</li><li>Update internal documentation and inform helpdesk staff.</li></ul></li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>[Compliance considerations:]</b></p><p></p><p></p><table> <tbody><tr><th>Question</th><th>Impact</th></tr> <tr><td>Does the change alter how admins can monitor,</td><td>Additional monitoring and reporting capabilities are exposed in Teams Admin Center and Call Quality Dashboard, including call/meeting details and Plugin/SlimCore version tracking.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <p></p>

Microsoft Teams now supports macOS with a new SlimCore media engine for Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, and Citrix, improving performance, meeting features, telephony, and supportability. Deployment begins late February 2026, requiring updated Teams and Citrix clients plus plugin installation for optimized VDI experiences.

2026-02-27T22:40:23.447Z

<p style="">Updated February 27, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.</p><p style=""><b>[Introduction]</b> </p><p>Microsoft Teams optimization with the new SlimCore-based media engine is now available for macOS endpoints connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments. This redesigned Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution replaces the legacy WebRTC-based optimization and delivers enhanced performance, reliability, security, and streamlined support. It also simplifies media engine updates without requiring frequent upgrades to VDI infrastructure or clients.</p><p>This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&amp;searchterms=502524" target="_blank">502524</a>.</p> <b>[When this will happen:]</b> <ul> <li><b style="">Targeted Release</b><b>:</b>&nbsp;Begins late February 2026 (previously mid-February), completes late February 2026 (previously late January).</li> <li><b>General Availability (Worldwide, GCC):</b> Begins late March 2026 (previously mid-March), completes mid-April 2026 (previously late March).</li> </ul> <b>[How this affects your organization:]</b> <ul> <li><b>Who is affected:</b> macOS users connecting to AVD, Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments using Microsoft Teams.</li> <li><b>What will happen:</b> <ul> <li>Teams will use the SlimCore media engine instead of WebRTC for optimized VDI experiences.</li> <li>Advanced meeting capabilities: <ul> <li>Gallery View 3x3 and 7x7</li> <li>Background images from My Organization</li> <li>1080p video resolution</li> <li>Include computer sound while screen sharing</li> <li>Hardware acceleration on the endpoint</li> </ul> </li> <li>Telephony and voice capabilities: <ul> <li>Location Based Routing and Media Bypass</li> <li>Quality of Service (QoS)</li> <li>Noise suppression</li> </ul> </li> <li>Better supportability: <ul> <li>Teams Admin Center integration</li> <li>Call Quality Dashboard support</li> <li>Simplified media engine updates via Plugin</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <b>[What you can do to prepare:]</b> <ul> <li>Ensure users have Teams version 25269.x.x.x or higher (available October 2025).</li> <li>For AVD/Windows 365: <ul> <li>Install the non-Store Windows App client (.pkg file) (<a href="https://aka.ms/macOSWindowsAppDownload">Download</a>).</li><li><i>Note</i>: Store version does not support SlimCore optimization.</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>Figure i. Download page for non-store Client</i></p><p><img src="https://cxcs.microsoft.net/file/ccp/en-us/686b29d7-8ebb-49b2-bd27-87b69961f55d" style="width: 400px;" alt="user settings"></p><p></p><p></p><ul> </ul> <p></p><ul> <li>For Citrix DaaS/CVAD: <ul> <li>Ensure Citrix Workspace App version 2505 or higher is installed.</li> <li>Install the Plugin: </li><ul> <li>Install the Plugin on top of CWA 2505+:<ul><li>Available as a standalone component (<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere" target="_blank">Download</a>)<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere." target="_blank">.</a></li><li>Alternatively, deploy via Global App Config service or <a href="https://docs.citrix.com/citrix-virtual-apps-desktops/multimedia/virtual-channel-plugin-manager.html" target="_blank">Virtual Channel Plugin Manager</a> (requires CWA 2508).</li></ul></li></ul><li>After deployment, users will be upgraded to the new optimization stack automatically after restarting Teams once rollout begins.</li><li>Update internal documentation and inform helpdesk staff.</li></ul></li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>[Compliance considerations:]</b></p><p></p><p></p><table> <tbody><tr><th>Question</th><th>Impact</th></tr> <tr><td>Does the change alter how admins can monitor,</td><td>Additional monitoring and reporting capabilities are exposed in Teams Admin Center and Call Quality Dashboard, including call/meeting details and Plugin/SlimCore version tracking.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <p></p>

Microsoft Teams on macOS for Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, and Citrix now uses the SlimCore media engine, replacing WebRTC for better performance and features like enhanced meeting views, 1080p video, hardware acceleration, and improved telephony. Deployment begins February-March 2026 with updated client and plugin requirements.

2026-02-18T17:32:23.537Z

<p style="">Updated February 17, 2026: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.</p><p style=""><b>[Introduction]</b> </p><p>Microsoft Teams optimization with the new SlimCore-based media engine is now available for macOS endpoints connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments. This redesigned Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution replaces the legacy WebRTC-based optimization and delivers enhanced performance, reliability, security, and streamlined support. It also simplifies media engine updates without requiring frequent upgrades to VDI infrastructure or clients.</p><p>This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&amp;searchterms=502524" target="_blank">502524</a>.</p> <b>[When this will happen:]</b> <ul> <li><b style="">Targeted Release</b><b>:</b>&nbsp;Begins late February 2026 (previously mid-February), completes late February 2026 (previously late January).</li> <li><b>General Availability (Worldwide, GCC):</b> Begins mid-March 2026 (previously late January), completes late March 2026 (previously mid-February).</li> </ul> <b>[How this affects your organization:]</b> <ul> <li><b>Who is affected:</b> macOS users connecting to AVD, Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments using Microsoft Teams.</li> <li><b>What will happen:</b> <ul> <li>Teams will use the SlimCore media engine instead of WebRTC for optimized VDI experiences.</li> <li>Advanced meeting capabilities: <ul> <li>Gallery View 3x3 and 7x7</li> <li>Background images from My Organization</li> <li>1080p video resolution</li> <li>Include computer sound while screen sharing</li> <li>Hardware acceleration on the endpoint</li> </ul> </li> <li>Telephony and voice capabilities: <ul> <li>Location Based Routing and Media Bypass</li> <li>Quality of Service (QoS)</li> <li>Noise suppression</li> </ul> </li> <li>Better supportability: <ul> <li>Teams Admin Center integration</li> <li>Call Quality Dashboard support</li> <li>Simplified media engine updates via Plugin</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <b>[What you can do to prepare:]</b> <ul> <li>Ensure users have Teams version 25269.x.x.x or higher (available October 2025).</li> <li>For AVD/Windows 365: <ul> <li>Install the non-Store Windows App client (.pkg file) (<a href="https://aka.ms/macOSWindowsAppDownload">Download</a>).</li><li><i>Note</i>: Store version does not support SlimCore optimization.</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>Figure i. Download page for non-store Client</i></p><p><img src="https://cxcs.microsoft.net/file/ccp/en-us/686b29d7-8ebb-49b2-bd27-87b69961f55d" style="width: 400px;" alt="user settings"></p><p></p><p></p><ul> </ul> <p></p><ul> <li>For Citrix DaaS/CVAD: <ul> <li>Ensure Citrix Workspace App version 2505 or higher is installed.</li> <li>Install the Plugin: </li><ul> <li>Install the Plugin on top of CWA 2505+:<ul><li>Available as a standalone component (<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere" target="_blank">Download</a>)<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere." target="_blank">.</a></li><li>Alternatively, deploy via Global App Config service or <a href="https://docs.citrix.com/citrix-virtual-apps-desktops/multimedia/virtual-channel-plugin-manager.html" target="_blank">Virtual Channel Plugin Manager</a> (requires CWA 2508).</li></ul></li></ul><li>After deployment, users will be upgraded to the new optimization stack automatically after restarting Teams once rollout begins.</li><li>Update internal documentation and inform helpdesk staff.</li></ul></li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>[Compliance considerations:]</b></p><p></p><p></p><table> <tbody><tr><th>Question</th><th>Impact</th></tr> <tr><td>Does the change alter how admins can monitor,</td><td>Additional monitoring and reporting capabilities are exposed in Teams Admin Center and Call Quality Dashboard, including call/meeting details and Plugin/SlimCore version tracking.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <p></p>

Microsoft Teams for macOS on Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, and Citrix will switch to the SlimCore media engine by March 2026, enhancing performance, meeting features, telephony, and supportability. Users must update Teams and install specific clients or plugins to enable these improvements.

2025-12-16T19:28:55.807Z

<p style="">Updated December 16, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.</p><p style=""><b>[Introduction]</b> </p><p>Microsoft Teams optimization with the new SlimCore-based media engine is now available for macOS endpoints connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments. This redesigned Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution replaces the legacy WebRTC-based optimization and delivers enhanced performance, reliability, security, and streamlined support. It also simplifies media engine updates without requiring frequent upgrades to VDI infrastructure or clients.</p><p>This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&amp;searchterms=502524" target="_blank">502524</a>.</p> <b>[When this will happen:]</b> <ul> <li><b style="">Targeted Release</b><b>:</b>&nbsp;Begins mid-February 2026 (previously mid-January), completes late February 2026 (previously late January).</li> <li><b>General Availability (Worldwide, GCC):</b> Begins mid-March 2026 (previously late January), completes late March 2026 (previously mid-February).</li> </ul> <b>[How this affects your organization:]</b> <ul> <li><b>Who is affected:</b> macOS users connecting to AVD, Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments using Microsoft Teams.</li> <li><b>What will happen:</b> <ul> <li>Teams will use the SlimCore media engine instead of WebRTC for optimized VDI experiences.</li> <li>Advanced meeting capabilities: <ul> <li>Gallery View 3x3 and 7x7</li> <li>Background images from My Organization</li> <li>1080p video resolution</li> <li>Include computer sound while screen sharing</li> <li>Hardware acceleration on the endpoint</li> </ul> </li> <li>Telephony and voice capabilities: <ul> <li>Location Based Routing and Media Bypass</li> <li>Quality of Service (QoS)</li> <li>Noise suppression</li> </ul> </li> <li>Better supportability: <ul> <li>Teams Admin Center integration</li> <li>Call Quality Dashboard support</li> <li>Simplified media engine updates via Plugin</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <b>[What you can do to prepare:]</b> <ul> <li>Ensure users have Teams version 25269.x.x.x or higher (available October 2025).</li> <li>For AVD/Windows 365: <ul> <li>Install the non-Store Windows App client (.pkg file) (<a href="https://aka.ms/macOSWindowsAppDownload">Download</a>).</li><li><i>Note</i>: Store version does not support SlimCore optimization.</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>Figure i. Download page for non-store Client</i></p><p><img src="https://cxcs.microsoft.net/file/ccp/en-us/686b29d7-8ebb-49b2-bd27-87b69961f55d" style="width: 400px;" alt="user settings"></p><p></p><p></p><ul> </ul> <p></p><ul> <li>For Citrix DaaS/CVAD: <ul> <li>Ensure Citrix Workspace App version 2505 or higher is installed.</li> <li>Install the Plugin: </li><ul> <li>Install the Plugin on top of CWA 2505+:<ul><li>Available as a standalone component (<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere" target="_blank">Download</a>)<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere." target="_blank">.</a></li><li>Alternatively, deploy via Global App Config service or <a href="https://docs.citrix.com/citrix-virtual-apps-desktops/multimedia/virtual-channel-plugin-manager.html" target="_blank">Virtual Channel Plugin Manager</a> (requires CWA 2508).</li></ul></li></ul><li>After deployment, users will be upgraded to the new optimization stack automatically after restarting Teams once rollout begins.</li><li>Update internal documentation and inform helpdesk staff.</li></ul></li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>[Compliance considerations:]</b></p><p></p><p></p><table> <tbody><tr><th>Question</th><th>Impact</th></tr> <tr><td>Does the change alter how admins can monitor,</td><td>Additional monitoring and reporting capabilities are exposed in Teams Admin Center and Call Quality Dashboard, including call/meeting details and Plugin/SlimCore version tracking.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <p></p>

Microsoft Teams introduces SlimCore media engine optimization for macOS users on Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, and Citrix, replacing WebRTC. Launch begins January 2026, enhancing meeting features, telephony, and supportability. Preparation includes updating Teams and installing specific clients or plugins. Monitoring tools are improved.

2025-10-17T17:18:40.707Z

<p style="">Updated October 17, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.</p><p style=""><b>[Introduction]</b> </p><p>Microsoft Teams optimization with the new SlimCore-based media engine is now available for macOS endpoints connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments. This redesigned Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution replaces the legacy WebRTC-based optimization and delivers enhanced performance, reliability, security, and streamlined support. It also simplifies media engine updates without requiring frequent upgrades to VDI infrastructure or clients.</p><p>This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&amp;searchterms=502524" target="_blank">502524</a>.</p> <b>[When this will happen:]</b> <ul> <li><b style="">Targeted Release</b><b>:</b>&nbsp;Begins mid-January 2026 (previously early November), completes late January 2026 (previously late November).</li> <li><b>General Availability (Worldwide, GCC):</b> Begins late January 2026 (previously mid-December), completes mid-February 2026 (previously mid-January).</li> </ul> <b>[How this affects your organization:]</b> <ul> <li><b>Who is affected:</b> macOS users connecting to AVD, Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments using Microsoft Teams.</li> <li><b>What will happen:</b> <ul> <li>Teams will use the SlimCore media engine instead of WebRTC for optimized VDI experiences.</li> <li>Advanced meeting capabilities: <ul> <li>Gallery View 3x3 and 7x7</li> <li>Background images from My Organization</li> <li>1080p video resolution</li> <li>Include computer sound while screen sharing</li> <li>Hardware acceleration on the endpoint</li> </ul> </li> <li>Telephony and voice capabilities: <ul> <li>Location Based Routing and Media Bypass</li> <li>Quality of Service (QoS)</li> <li>Noise suppression</li> </ul> </li> <li>Better supportability: <ul> <li>Teams Admin Center integration</li> <li>Call Quality Dashboard support</li> <li>Simplified media engine updates via Plugin</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <b>[What you can do to prepare:]</b> <ul> <li>Ensure users have Teams version 25269.x.x.x or higher (available October 2025).</li> <li>For AVD/Windows 365: <ul> <li>Install the non-Store Windows App client (.pkg file) (<a href="https://aka.ms/macOSWindowsAppDownload">Download</a>).</li><li><i>Note</i>: Store version does not support SlimCore optimization.</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>Figure i. Download page for non-store Client</i></p><p><img src="https://cxcs.microsoft.net/file/ccp/en-us/686b29d7-8ebb-49b2-bd27-87b69961f55d" style="width: 400px;" alt="user settings"></p><p></p><p></p><ul> </ul> <p></p><ul> <li>For Citrix DaaS/CVAD: <ul> <li>Ensure Citrix Workspace App version 2505 or higher is installed.</li> <li>Install the Plugin: </li><ul> <li>Install the Plugin on top of CWA 2505+:<ul><li>Available as a standalone component (<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere" target="_blank">Download</a>)<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere." target="_blank">.</a></li><li>Alternatively, deploy via Global App Config service or <a href="https://docs.citrix.com/citrix-virtual-apps-desktops/multimedia/virtual-channel-plugin-manager.html" target="_blank">Virtual Channel Plugin Manager</a> (requires CWA 2508).</li></ul></li></ul><li>After deployment, users will be upgraded to the new optimization stack automatically after restarting Teams once rollout begins.</li><li>Update internal documentation and inform helpdesk staff.</li></ul></li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>[Compliance considerations:]</b></p><p></p><p></p><table> <tbody><tr><th>Question</th><th>Impact</th></tr> <tr><td>Does the change alter how admins can monitor,</td><td>Additional monitoring and reporting capabilities are exposed in Teams Admin Center and Call Quality Dashboard, including call/meeting details and Plugin/SlimCore version tracking.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <p></p>

Microsoft Teams for macOS on Azure Virtual Desktop, Windows 365, and Citrix now uses the SlimCore media engine, replacing WebRTC for improved performance, advanced meeting features, telephony enhancements, and better support. Rollout starts November 2025; users need updated Teams and specific client/plugin versions.

2025-09-26T16:57:14.723Z

Updated message,New feature,User impact

<p style="">Updated September 26, 2025: We have updated the timeline. Thank you for your patience.</p><p style=""><b>[Introduction]</b> </p><p>Microsoft Teams optimization with the new SlimCore-based media engine is now available for macOS endpoints connecting to Azure Virtual Desktop (AVD), Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments. This redesigned Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) solution replaces the legacy WebRTC-based optimization and delivers enhanced performance, reliability, security, and streamlined support. It also simplifies media engine updates without requiring frequent upgrades to VDI infrastructure or clients.</p><p>This message is associated with Microsoft 365 Roadmap ID <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-365/roadmap?filters=&amp;searchterms=502524" target="_blank">502524</a>.</p> <b>[When this will happen:]</b> <ul> <li><b style="">Targeted Release</b><b>:</b>&nbsp;Begins early November 2025, completes late November 2025.</li> <li><b>General Availability (Worldwide, GCC):</b> Begins mid-December 2025, completes mid-January 2026.</li> </ul> <b>[How this affects your organization:]</b> <ul> <li><b>Who is affected:</b> macOS users connecting to AVD, Windows 365, or Citrix DaaS/CVAD environments using Microsoft Teams.</li> <li><b>What will happen:</b> <ul> <li>Teams will use the SlimCore media engine instead of WebRTC for optimized VDI experiences.</li> <li>Advanced meeting capabilities: <ul> <li>Gallery View 3x3 and 7x7</li> <li>Background images from My Organization</li> <li>1080p video resolution</li> <li>Include computer sound while screen sharing</li> <li>Hardware acceleration on the endpoint</li> </ul> </li> <li>Telephony and voice capabilities: <ul> <li>Location Based Routing and Media Bypass</li> <li>Quality of Service (QoS)</li> <li>Noise suppression</li> </ul> </li> <li>Better supportability: <ul> <li>Teams Admin Center integration</li> <li>Call Quality Dashboard support</li> <li>Simplified media engine updates via Plugin</li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> <b>[What you can do to prepare:]</b> <ul> <li>Ensure users have Teams version 25269.x.x.x or higher (available October 2025).</li> <li>For AVD/Windows 365: <ul> <li>Install the non-Store Windows App client (.pkg file) (<a href="https://aka.ms/macOSWindowsAppDownload">Download</a>).</li><li><i>Note</i>: Store version does not support SlimCore optimization.</li></ul></li></ul><p><i>Figure i. Download page for non-store Client</i></p><p><img src="https://cxcs.microsoft.net/file/ccp/en-us/686b29d7-8ebb-49b2-bd27-87b69961f55d" style="width: 400px;" alt="user settings"></p><p></p><p></p><ul> </ul> <p></p><ul> <li>For Citrix DaaS/CVAD: <ul> <li>Ensure Citrix Workspace App version 2505 or higher is installed.</li> <li>Install the Plugin: </li><ul> <li>Install the Plugin on top of CWA 2505+:<ul><li>Available as a standalone component (<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere" target="_blank">Download</a>)<a href="https://aka.ms/CitrixPluginDownloadhere." target="_blank">.</a></li><li>Alternatively, deploy via Global App Config service or <a href="https://docs.citrix.com/citrix-virtual-apps-desktops/multimedia/virtual-channel-plugin-manager.html" target="_blank">Virtual Channel Plugin Manager</a> (requires CWA 2508).</li></ul></li></ul><li>After deployment, users will be upgraded to the new optimization stack automatically after restarting Teams once rollout begins.</li><li>Update internal documentation and inform helpdesk staff.</li></ul></li></ul><p></p><p></p><ul></ul><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><b>[Compliance considerations:]</b></p><p></p><p></p><table> <tbody><tr><th>Question</th><th>Impact</th></tr> <tr><td>Does the change alter how admins can monitor,</td><td>Additional monitoring and reporting capabilities are exposed in Teams Admin Center and Call Quality Dashboard, including call/meeting details and Plugin/SlimCore version tracking.</td></tr> </tbody></table> <p></p>