Microsoft is continuing to refine its collaboration platform, Microsoft Teams, with another update aimed at improving flexibility for smartphone users. After rolling out several usability enhancements in recent months—such as keeping Teams visible above other windows to improve multitasking—the company is now preparing a new setting that affects how links are opened within the app.
According to information published in the Microsoft 365 Admin Centre, a forthcoming option labelled Links in Teams (message ID MC1216263) will allow users to choose which mobile browser is used when opening non-Office and PDF links inside Teams. The update is expected to begin rolling out in phases later this month.
Once available, the new setting will allow users to select a preferred browser rather than being restricted to the operating system’s default. This change is designed to offer more control over link handling, particularly on mobile devices where app-to-browser transitions can affect workflow efficiency.
However, Microsoft’s implementation places clear emphasis on its own browser, Microsoft Edge. When users attempt to open a PDF or external link, a prompt will appear listing Edge as the primary option—even if it is not installed or set as the device’s default browser. Microsoft highlights features such as single sign-on and enhanced security as reasons to choose Edge.
If Edge is selected but not present on the device, users will be redirected to the app store to download it. While users can still proceed to configure another browser as their preferred choice, the process requires additional steps.
Notably, Microsoft has not publicly listed alternative browsers, such as Google Chrome, Firefox, or Opera, as selectable options in the initial prompt, according to Neowin.
Microsoft has also indicated that it will monitor user satisfaction, Edge installation rates, and long-term retention as the feature rolls out. While the update does provide greater flexibility than before, it also reinforces Microsoft’s broader strategy of promoting its own ecosystem alongside productivity improvements.
The new browser selection setting is part of a broader wave of Teams enhancements, with additional features—such as hiding the meeting toolbar—still in development and scheduled to arrive in future updates.
