Microsoft backpedals to revert Azure AD login changes, vows to do better

Sometimes, even a tech giant like Microsoft can find themselves between a rock and a hard space. A few weeks ago, the Azure team switched up the branding logic for its Azure Active Directory login pages. But that didn’t sit too hot with the consumers.

Employers and employees that encountered the updated login were finding themselves less efficient as a result of miscommunication. Even though the proposed changes were meant to make it easier for employees and B2B guests what they were signing into, it seems the plan backfired. With what some called a ‘sudden change’, many were confused and even frustrated enough to leave their two-cents for Microsoft.

As a response, the Azure team is rolling back the changes to the Azure AD login page. Alex Simons explained in the announcement that they will be revisiting the plan to inform and communicate changes like these in the futures. It seems the team is taking this commitment to interacting with the feedback seriously too. Program Manager Ariel Gordon even listed off ways that the team will be adjusting for futureAzure AD releases that will affect businesses.

1. Future login UX change that affect business customers will be announced ahead of time
2. Changes will be tested via flighting, and incorporate a Preview period that allows us to gather broader feedback from you
3. For most disruptive design changes, we’ll introduce an opt-in period of at least 30 days, giving everyone a chance to update their support and training materials

No doubt we’ll see a revamped version of this login update later down the line. As pointed out int the blog post, this was also a step to mainstream Azure AD with Microsoft accounts. At least this time, everyone will be expecting it.