Microsoft Teams Discontinues Android SMS Integration for Windows 11 Users

In an unexpected turn of events, Microsoft Teams is set to disband one of its unique features—SMS integration with Android phones. This transition is part of a larger migration towards Skype as Microsoft Teams’ new home and is slated for automatic implementation in upcoming months. The SMS functionality will officially be retired in April 2025, prompting users to transition to the Phone Link app for sending and receiving messages.

For those not familiar, Microsoft Teams previously allowed users to sync SMS messages from their Android devices directly into the Chats section. This feature enabled you to manage incoming texts without needing to pick up your phone, facilitating seamless communication through Teams. Essentially, if you received a message, you could read and reply to it within the Teams application, preserving your workflow.

Known as the “Link your phone” feature, this function worked independently of the Phone Link app. However, recent updates indicate that Microsoft Teams is now displaying alerts regarding the impending removal of this SMS service.

According to an official statement from Microsoft, “Starting April 2025, sending and receiving SMS messages from your Android device will no longer be supported in Teams. To continue using this feature on Windows, please use Phone Link.” This announcement signifies a notable adjustment for users accustomed to integrating SMS within the Teams environment.

How to Send and Receive Android SMS in Microsoft Teams

For those still utilizing the SMS functionality within Teams, here’s a brief overview of how to access Android SMS messages through the app before the feature is phased out.

First and foremost, ensure that you are equipped with a PC running Windows 11 and an Android device that operates on version 7.0 or newer. Next, you will need to download the “Link to Windows” app from the Google Play Store.

Once the app has been installed, follow these steps:

Launch Microsoft Teams: Open the desktop application on your Windows 11 device.
Access Settings: Click the three dots located next to your profile picture to open the settings menu.
Select Mobile Device: Navigate to the “Mobile device” section, where you will find the option to “Link your phone.”
Scan QR Code: Upon selecting “Link your phone, ” a QR code will generate. Use your Android phone’s Link to Windows app to scan it. If your phone is already paired, this step will be skipped.

If executed correctly, your SMS messages will sync successfully, displaying alongside your most recent Teams chats in the “Chats” section. This unique setup effectively combined traditional SMS with the Teams messaging experience, but with the upcoming removal this functionality will transition out in favor of the Phone Link app. You’ll still be able to access your Android SMS directly on Windows 11 through this application after April 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is Microsoft removing SMS integration from Teams?

Microsoft is shifting its focus towards the Phone Link app for SMS functionalities, which offers a more integrated and updated experience compared to the SMS feature within Teams.

2. What should I do if I still rely on SMS integration in Teams?

It’s advisable to transition to the Phone Link app as soon as possible. This app enables seamless SMS communications on Windows 11 devices once the integration in Teams is phased out.

3. How can I set up the Phone Link app?

Download the Phone Link app from the Microsoft Store or find it via Windows settings. After installation, follow the guided setup to link your Android phone and access SMS functionality.

Source & Images