PC users may be disappointed that there’s nothing new for them here, but anyone with a MacBook will be thrilled to learn that their flashy TouchBar can now mute calls, turn the camera off, and more. The request for this function came from the Microsoft Teams forums, before being implemented by the development team. Recently announced, it’s now possible for MacBook users to control Teams with the TouchBar, including using it for key features, such as turning the camera off, muting the microphone, raising and lowering their hand, leave a meeting, and more. Traditionally, these functions are controlled with buttons on the screen (or, if you prefer, keyboard shortcuts), but this addition will mean fewer games of needing to hunt the mouse cursor on screen or remember those keyboard commands. No TouchBar? No problem – see our guide to the Best Video Call Tips and Shortcuts In fact, we covered these forums just the other week, when a long requested feature (the ability to turn off the chat) was implemented, much to relief of meeting hosts everywhere. The original request was created by a user on the forums back in 2017, but was only implemented this week. With 698 votes and 114 comments, it’s clear that original user who requested it was far from alone in wanting this to be added. Not sure whether to go with Microsoft Teams or Zoom? Read our in-depth guide.
Mute/unmute – Ctrl+Shift+MToggle video – Ctrl+Shift+O (desktop app only)Accept video call – Ctrl+Shift+AAccept audio call – Ctrl+Shift+SDecline call – Ctrl+Shift+DStart video call – Ctrl+Shift+UFilter list – Ctrl+Shift+FGo to sharing toolbar – Ctrl+Shift+Space
Is it Worth Getting a Mac with a TouchBar?
If you’re after a MacBook, you’re already spending some serious cash. But, getting a model with the TouchBar above the keyboard adds some further expense. For most everyday Mac users, a MacBook Air is a fantastic device. The latest Air model is remarkably fast, has a gorgeous screen, and is, of course, a slim and stylish laptop. But, the one thing it doesn’t have is a TouchBar. For that, you’ll need to spend more on a MacBook Pro. It’s unlikely that the Microsoft Teams functionality alone will be enough to tip anyone in the direction of a MacBook Pro. But, if you’re after a laptop with a lot more processing power than the standard Air, then a MacBook Pro will give you everything you need – including a nifty TouchBar. See our guide to the MacBook Air vs MacBook Pro for more.
