Microsoft Teams to Prompt Users to Choose Edge When Opening Links

Microsoft is updating Microsoft Edge for Business and Microsoft Teams with deeper Copilot integration and a new browser selection prompt that promotes Edge when opening links.

According to a Microsoft 365 Admin Center message MC1216263, the company is introducing changes that affect how links open inside Teams, while also expanding Copilot’s ability to analyze Office files and open tabs within Edge for Business.

Teams introduces “Links in Teams” browser setting

Microsoft is rolling out a new Teams setting called “Links in Teams,” which lets users choose which browser opens non-Office and PDF links.

The feature overrides the mobile operating system’s default browser behavior. The first time users click a supported link, Teams will require them to select a browser, even if they never open the settings menu.

A pop-up will present Microsoft Edge and the system’s default browser as options. Microsoft highlights Edge’s Single Sign-On and security benefits within the prompt.

If Edge is not installed and a user selects it, Teams will trigger a second prompt directing them to the app store to install the browser.

Other browsers, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Vivaldi, are not emphasized unless already installed.

Users can later change their preference inside the “Links in Teams” section of the Teams settings menu.

Admin controls and policy management

IT administrators can manage the feature through PowerShell using the TeamsMobilityPolicy and the LinksInTeams attribute.

Setting the policy to UseSystemDefaults restores standard operating system browser behavior and disables the forced prompt.

If administrators do not configure policies in advance, the browser choice prompt becomes the default experience for Teams users.

Microsoft will track user satisfaction, Edge installation rates, and retention tied to this feature.

Rollout timeline and potential friction

The rollout begins later this month and should be completed by the end of February for worldwide, DoD, and GCC customers.

IT departments may see an increase in helpdesk queries as users encounter the new prompts and changed link behavior.

Some organizations may view the update as added friction, especially for employees who rely on established workflows with non-Microsoft browsers.

Microsoft has faced scrutiny in the past over its promotion of Edge, including investigations related to OEM preinstallation practices. The new Teams browser prompt adds another layer to the company’s broader Edge adoption strategy.

In related news, Microsoft has also rolled out Copilot Prompts to Teams worldwide.

Via Neowin