Microsoft Teams has become an essential tool for organizations to collaborate, share files, and hold virtual meetings. Whether you're new to Teams or just need a refresher, knowing how to join a meeting is crucial. Here are the various ways you can join a Microsoft Teams meeting using different platforms.
Join a Teams meeting from the desktop app
The Microsoft Teams desktop application offers the most comprehensive set of features and provides the best experience when joining meetings.
Step 1: Launch the Microsoft Teams desktop app on your computer. In the left navigation pane, click on 'Teams' to view all the teams you're part of. Each team will have channels listed beneath it.
Step 2: Look for a channel that has a meeting in progress; it will display a 'video camera' icon next to it. Click on that channel to proceed.
Step 3: Inside the channel, you'll find a post indicating that a meeting has started. You'll also see the profile pictures of participants in circles on the right. Click the 'Join' button to enter the meeting.
Step 4: A preview screen will appear, allowing you to configure your audio and video settings before joining. After adjusting your preferences, click 'Join now' to enter the meeting.
If someone invites you directly to a meeting, you may receive a desktop notification. You can join the meeting by clicking the notification.
Note: Notifications about ongoing meetings are only received if someone specifically invites you. Otherwise, you may not receive a notification.
Join a Teams meeting from the web app
If you don't have the desktop app installed or you're using a device where you can't install it, you can still join a Teams meeting through the web app using your browser.
Step 1: Open Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, as these browsers support Teams meetings. Navigate to teams.microsoft.com and sign in to your account.
Step 2: You'll be prompted to either download the desktop app or use the web app. Click on 'Use the web app instead'.
Step 3: Once the web app loads, click on 'Teams' from the left-hand menu. Find the channel with the ongoing meeting; it will have a 'video camera' icon beside it. Click on that channel.
Step 4: In the channel, you'll see a post about the ongoing meeting. Click the 'Join' button to proceed.
Step 5: Your browser will prompt you to allow Teams to use your microphone and camera. Click 'Allow' to grant permission. If you miss the prompt, click on the 'camera icon with a cross' in the address bar to adjust your settings.
Step 6: After granting permissions, you'll reach the settings screen. Adjust your audio and video preferences, then click 'Join now' to enter the meeting.
Join a Teams meeting from iPhone or Android
You can also join Teams meetings on the go using your mobile device.
Step 1: Download the Microsoft Teams app from your device's app store if you haven't already.
Step 2: Open the Teams app on your phone and sign in to your account. Tap on the 'Teams' icon at the bottom to see your teams and channels.
Step 3: Locate the channel with the ongoing meeting; it will have a 'video camera' icon next to it. Tap on the channel to access it.
Step 4: In the channel, tap the 'Join' button within the meeting post.
Step 5: Before joining, you'll be able to set your audio and video preferences. By default, both are turned off. Adjust your settings as needed, then tap 'Join now' to enter the meeting.
Join a Teams meeting as a guest
Even if you're not a member of an organization or don't have a Microsoft Teams account, you can still join a meeting as a guest using an invite link.
Step 1: Click on the 'Join Microsoft Teams Meeting' link provided in your invitation.
Step 2: You will be redirected to a web page where you can choose to download the desktop app or join on the web. Select either option based on your preference. On mobile devices, you'll need to download the Teams app.
Step 3: Choose 'Join as a guest' instead of signing in or creating an account.
Step 4: Enter your name, which will be visible to other participants. Adjust your audio and video settings as needed, then click 'Join now'.
Step 5: Depending on the organization's settings, you might enter a lobby where you'll wait until someone admits you to the meeting.
Note: When joining as a guest, some features might be limited compared to full members.
Joining a Microsoft Teams meeting is straightforward, whether you're using the desktop app, web app, mobile app, or joining as a guest. With these methods, you can connect with your team from anywhere, ensuring seamless collaboration.
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