Microsoft is now replacing the native Microsoft Teams client application under Linux with a Progressive Web App (PWA). The web application can be installed via the browser and is intended to close the gaps in the feature set between Windows and the free operating system more quickly in the future. App replaces desktop application
As Microsoft announced in a post in its Tech Community, Teams under Linux is to be converted to an installable web app. With this, the company wants to close the gap between Teams for Windows and the neglected client for Linux.
Microsoft Teams as a progressive web app under Linux (image: Microsoft)Installation and use via the browser
The web app can be installed via Edge via Apps → Install this page as an app and then used almost like a locally installed application. When Teams is called up in the browser for the first time, a corresponding pop-up is also displayed, prompting the user to install the web app.
Microsoft Teams as PWA currently stands for the following browsers available. Mozilla Firefox is still left out when it comes to PWAs.
- Microsoft Edge
- Google Chrome
- Chromium
Parity of Windows and Linux as target
In the future, the Progressive Web App under Linux should be keep pace with the development of the desktop application for Windows and provide a comparable feature set, according to Microsoft.
The PWA offers access to more capabilities, including custom backgrounds, gallery view, reactions, the raise-a-hand feature in meetings, as well as large gallery and Together mode views. The PWA also provides desktop-like app features, such as system notifications for chat and channel, a dock icon with respective controls, application auto-start, and easy access to system app permissions.
Microsoft
The initial availability of teams as a PWA is already accompanied by the first new features for Linux users.
- Function for raising hands during meetings
- Set custom backgrounds
- Global system notifications
- A new gallery view
- Reactions to chats
The Progressive Web App is stored with the familiar icon in the dock or start menu of the operating system and can also be included in the autostart.
For more information, see the official Microsoft Teams blog.