Microsoft has launched Mesh, a virtual meeting platform on Teams

While many organizations are pushing for their employees to return to their offices, Microsoft is proposing to try a new type of “hybrid” work. The company has announced the launch Microsoft is not, a feature that allows employee avatars to meet in the same place, even if actual people are spread out. The virtual communication system is powered by Microsoft Teams.

Microsoft has tested Mesh on companies such as consulting firm Accenture and pharmaceutical-focused Takeda. “The world of work continues to evolve at a rapid pace, but the importance of human connection has never gone away. Lunchtime conversations, hallway meetings, coffee chats – they often hold the key to workplace success and employee happiness,” Takeda said. Leo Parrilla, Chief Technology Officer at A statement. He claims their meetings were “more collaborative and immersive.”

Mesh provides a series of pre-made spaces that businesses can customize with everything from informational videos to logos – without having to enter any code. The Mesh toolkit runs through Unity, Microsoft's 2D and 3D development platform, to further customize the virtual world. Basically, if there's a retreat that the employer wants everyone to take, they can create a copy of it and invite everyone's avatars.

Currently, Microsoft Mesh is only available on desktop PCs and Meta Quest VR consoles (if employees want a more immersive experience). Microsoft offers a free six-month trial to anyone with a business or enterprise plan. Otherwise, prices range from $4 per user per month for Microsoft Teams Essentials all the way up to $57 per user per month for Microsoft 365 E5.

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