App names hidden in app bar for a cleaner, more focused experience

Originally posted by Microsoft Feb 3, 2026 Uncategorized 0 Comments

Microsoft Teams will hide app names in the app bar by default starting late February 2026 for a cleaner look, showing only icons. Users can re-enable names via Settings. This affects all commercial tenants, requires no admin changes, and has no impact on policies or permissions.

Introduction

We are updating the Microsoft Teams app bar to create a cleaner and more focused experience. App names will be hidden by default, showing only app icons. This helps reduce visual noise and improves overall navigation clarity. Users can choose to show app names again in Settings.

When this will happen

General Availability (Worldwide): We will begin rolling out in late February 2026 and expect to complete by early March 2026.

How this affects your organization

Who is affected: All Microsoft Teams users in commercial (non-government) tenants.

What will happen:

• App names in the Teams app bar will be hidden by default.
• Users will see app icons only, providing a simplified vertical navigation experience.
• Users who prefer to show app names may update this setting individually:
  • Settings > Appearance > Show app names in the app bar
• No admin configuration changes are required.
• There is no impact to existing policies, permissions, or app availability.

Screenshot 1 – Before:

 View image in new tab

Screenshot 2 – After:

What you can do to prepare

Compliance considerations

No compliance considerations identified. Review as appropriate for your organization.

View image in new tab

• No action is required.
• If helpful, you may notify users or help desk staff about this visual update and how to re-enable app names.
• If your organization maintains internal documentation or screenshots of the Teams interface, consider updating them after rollout.

Message ID: MC1226220