How to use the new Together mode layout in Teams meetings

Microsoft Teams has introduced a new layout for the Together mode in meetings, which displays the meeting participants below the shared content. This creates a more natural and immersive view of the meeting, as well as improves the focus and engagement of the attendees.

How to use the new Together mode layout

To use the new Together mode layout, you need to be a member of the Teams Public Preview or Microsoft 365 Targeted release and use the new Teams client for Windows or macOS.

Once you have the new Teams client, you can select the new layout by clicking on View > Together mode in the meeting toolbar while in a meeting. You will see the shared content on the top of the screen and the meeting participants on the bottom. You can also adjust the size of the content and the participants by dragging the divider between them.

Benefits of the new Together mode layout

The new Together mode layout has several benefits for educators and learners, such as:

• It reduces the distraction from the Together mode background, which can sometimes be too busy or irrelevant for the meeting context.
• It preserves the features of the Together mode, such as raised hands, reactions, and name labels, which help to enhance the communication and collaboration in the meeting.
• It creates a more natural and realistic view of the meeting, as if the participants are sitting in front of the shared content, rather than behind it.
• It improves the focus and attention of the attendees on the shared content, which can be especially useful for presentations, lectures, and demonstrations.

Examples of using the new Together mode layout in teaching and learning

The new Together mode layout can be used for various teaching and learning scenarios, such as:

• Presenting a slide deck: You can use the new layout to present your slides to your students, while still seeing their faces and reactions. You can also ask questions and interact with them more easily, as they appear closer to the content.
• Demonstrating a software or a website: You can use the new layout to show your students how to use a software or a website, while still being able to monitor their engagement and feedback. You can also invite them to share their screens and demonstrate their own work, while you provide guidance and support.
• Explaining a diagram or a chart: You can use the new layout to explain a diagram or a chart to your students, while still maintaining eye contact and rapport. You can also use annotations and pointers to highlight the key points and details of the content.

Want to learn more?

Check out the M365 Insider blog on this topic to learn more. New layout available for Together mode in Teams (microsoft365.com)