Microsoft Planner Gets a Major Refresh: What’s New and What It Means for Team Collaboration
Microsoft Planner is getting a significant overhaul, bringing a cleaner interface, improved performance, and long-awaited features like task chat with @mentions. The rollout begins today, impacting both the Teams version and the web app, promising a more streamlined planning experience for users.
A Simpler, More Focused Workspace
The core of the update is a redesigned user interface. Microsoft emphasizes a focus on simplicity, aiming to reduce visual clutter and improve layout. This translates to faster performance and a more consistent experience across platforms. As Microsoft states, the new look is designed to assist users “find what they require” more easily.
Real-Time Collaboration with Task Chat and @Mentions
One of the most requested features is finally here: task chat. This addition brings real-time, threaded conversations directly into each task. Crucially, Microsoft has addressed user feedback by changing notification settings. Users will now only receive notifications when they are directly @mentioned in a task, reducing unnecessary interruptions.
Setting Goals and Staying Aligned
The update also introduces a new Goals view, designed to help teams set objectives and priorities. This feature aims to ensure everyone is on the same page regarding project direction and overall objectives.
What This Means for the Future of Work
This refresh positions Planner as a more competitive tool within the Microsoft 365 suite. The focus on streamlining the user experience and enhancing collaboration aligns with broader trends in workplace productivity. Microsoft’s stated aim to prepare for “future AI-powered capabilities” suggests further integration with tools like Copilot is on the horizon. The changes also reflect a broader shift towards more focused and less disruptive communication within project management tools.
FAQ: Microsoft Planner’s New Update
- When will I acquire the update? The rollout begins today, February 24, 2026, but will accept a few weeks to reach all users.
- Will this affect Planner in Teams and the web version? No, the update applies to both versions.
- How do @mentions work? When you @mention a team member in a task, they will receive a notification in their Teams Activity feed and via email.
Stay tuned for further updates as Microsoft continues to evolve Planner and integrate it with the latest AI technologies.
