Did Microsoft Break License Free Call Apps?
On March 20, 2025, Microsoft quietly announced a policy change enforcing Phone System license checks for bot-initiated PSTN calls in Microsoft Teams, effective September 30, 2025. This update introduces stricter requirements for bot-initiated call transfers and participant additions, prompting inquiries about its impact on Teams telephony integrations, including TeamMate’s PBX Connector Call App.
Understanding Microsoft’s Policy Change
Microsoft’s new policy affects applications using the Microsoft Graph API for bot-initiated call transfers or adding participants in Teams. Key details include:
- New Requirement: Starting September 30, 2025, Teams users receiving bot-initiated transfers or add-participant requests must have a Microsoft Teams Phone license and be Enterprise Voice Enabled. Non-compliant actions will be blocked.
- Scope: The change targets automated call workflows, such as those in call queues or contact centers.
- Manual Transfers Unaffected: Teams users can still manually transfer calls to others, regardless of licensing status.
This policy impacts license-free Teams telephony integrations, which enable PSTN calling within Teams without requiring individual Phone System licenses. Solutions that may potentially be affected include Call2Teams Go, Dialpad’s License-Free Routing, Intermedia’s Unite for Teams Embedded, RingCentral for Microsoft Teams Embedded App, Vonage VBC for Teams, 8×8 Phone App for Microsoft Teams, and TeamMate’s PBX Connector Call App.
Industry Responses
- Vonage (VBC for Teams): Vonage instructs customers to migrate off “VBC Voice for Microsoft Teams” and notes the product will be discontinued on Sep 30, 2025.
- 8×8: According to the 8×8 Support page, the 8×8 Phone App for Microsoft Teams will no longer be supported after September 30, 2025.
- Dialpad: Announced the deprecation of its License-Free Routing effective September 30, 2025. Users must transition to Direct Routing (requiring Phone System licenses) or a non-native Dialpad app to maintain functionality.
- Call2Teams (Dstny): While no public announcement has been made, reports suggest Call2Teams Go will require Phone System licenses for Go users starting September 30, 2025.
- Intermedia: No deprecation announced for its Unite for Teams Embedded solution. Intermedia documentation suggests that their Capp App for Microsoft Teams does not rely on bot bridging.
- RingCentral: Has announced in marketing communications that their partners should leverage Microsoft licensing shifts to grow RingCentral deals because their embedded app will continue to work after September 30, 2025.
TeamMate’s Commitment to Continuity
TeamMate customers can rest assured: the PBX Connector Call App will not be deprecated. Our solution leverages the Azure Communication Services (ACS) Calling SDK, Microsoft’s CPaaS platform, to deliver a license-free calling experience for external users and integrate PSTN calling within Teams. However, to comply with Microsoft’s policy change, we are making some adjustments.
Upcoming Changes to the PBX Connector Call App
Currently, the app uses a transfer bot to simulate the native Teams calling experience for incoming calls. Starting September 30, 2025, we will transition to relying solely on the ACS API for all call operations, eliminating the use of the transfer bot. This shift ensures compliance with Microsoft’s new requirements while maintaining core functionality.
- What to Expect:
- User Experience Adjustments: The move to ACS API-based calling will slightly alter the call interface within Teams. Detailed guidance will be shared with customers in the coming days.
- Uninterrupted Functionality: PSTN calling, call management, and integration with your existing PBX system will remain fully operational.
- License-Free for External Users: External users will continue to enjoy license-free calling via ACS, with no Microsoft Teams Phone licenses required.
Why This Matters
Our transition to a fully ACS-based solution ensures that your telephony integration remains robust, cost-effective, and compliant with Microsoft’s updated policies. By leveraging ACS, TeamMate minimizes licensing costs for external users while delivering a seamless experience for Teams users.
Next Steps for TeamMate Customers
We are committed to keeping you informed and supported:
- Detailed Updates: Expect a comprehensive guide on the updated user experience in the coming days, including FAQs and configuration actions required.
- Support Available: Contact our support team for assistance.
- Stay Prepared: Review your Call App user base to identify any call scenarios that may require Phone System licenses post-September 30, 2025.
TeamMate remains dedicated to delivering innovative, cost-effective telephony solutions for Microsoft Teams. We appreciate your trust and look forward to supporting your communication needs through this transition.
