Microsoft Teams now supports apps in Shared Channels, allowing users to add and use bots, tabs, and message extensions directly within these channels. App support for Private Channels will soon follow the same model.
Timeline
The rollout should be completed by January 2026.
What is changing?
Until now, only a limited set of Microsoft-provided apps has been available in Shared Channels.
After the update, Shared Channels will support apps for bots, tabs, and message extensions, assuming the developer has updated the app for Shared Channel use. Private Channels will soon follow the same app model.
- Developers must explicitly prepare their apps for Shared Channels; otherwise, they will not appear. Developers should follow the documentation to update their apps.
- Shared Channel apps follow the same publishing process as standard channel apps. A Teams administrator must publish the app to selected users or the entire organisation.
- By default, Shared Channel members can add apps. Shared Channel owners can now disable this option in the channel settings.
- Apps must be explicitly added to each Shared Channel. Installing apps at the team level does not apply to Shared or Private Channels.
- External users (via Entra ID B2B Direct Connect) can use supported apps, depending on the app capabilities and admin settings.
- Teams apps in Shared Channels are supported on Teams for Windows, Mac, the web, and Teams Mobile.
