Although there are many organizations forcing his employees to return to their offices, Microsoft offers to try a new kind of “hybrid” operation. The company announced that it has started work Microsoft Mesh, a feature that allows employee avatars to meet in the same place, even if the actual people are spread out. The virtual communication platform is getting stronger Microsoft Teams.
Microsoft has tested Mesh at companies such as consulting firm Accenture and pharmaceuticals-focused Takeda. “The business world continues to evolve rapidly, but the importance of human connection has never gone away. Lunchtime conversations, hallway meetings, coffee chats—often they hold the key to both workplace success and employee happiness,” Takeda’s Chief Technology Officer Leo Barella explained in a statement. He claims his meetings are “more collaborative and inclusive.”
Mesh provides a number of pre-made spaces where companies can customize everything from informational videos to logos without entering any code. The Mesh toolkit works through Unity, Microsoft’s 2D and 3D development platform, to further customize the virtual world. Basically, if a recruiter has a retreat that they want everyone to take, they can create a version of it and invite everyone’s avatars.
Currently, Microsoft Mesh is only available on desktop computers and Meta Quest VR devices (if employees want a more immersive experience). Microsoft is offering a six-month free trial to anyone with a business or enterprise plan. Otherwise, prices range from $4 per user per month Microsoft Teams Essentials for Microsoft 365 E5 up to $57 per user per month.
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