Microsoft is set to introduce a significant update to the Teams Admin Center, focusing on the management of third-party applications. This new feature, known as "Rules-Based Enablement of Third-Party Teams Apps," empowers Microsoft 365 (M365) administrators to establish specific criteria for approving third-party applications within their organization. By selecting from a list of predefined, secure criteria, administrators can ensure that only trusted and compliant applications are accessible to users. (m365admin.handsontek.net)
This enhancement is scheduled to roll out in mid-July 2025, with completion expected by early August 2025. The feature will be enabled by default, requiring no immediate action from administrators. However, Microsoft recommends updating relevant documentation and assessing the potential impact on organizational workflows. (m365admin.handsontek.net)
A notable aspect of this update is its initial availability exclusively for F licenses, which are typically assigned to frontline workers. The current documentation specifies: "This feature is available for F licenses." While there is an indication that support for other license types may be introduced in the future, no specific timeline has been provided. (m365admin.handsontek.net)
Before this rollout, managing the availability of Microsoft 365 certified apps in bulk was not possible; they were controlled solely by third-party app tenant settings. Post-rollout, administrators can manage these apps' availability through org-wide settings in the Teams Admin Center by navigating to Manage apps > Actions > Org-wide app settings > Microsoft 365 certified apps. The "All apps available" option will be enabled by default after this rollout. (m365admin.handsontek.net)
This update is part of Microsoft's broader initiative to enhance app management within Teams. In a related development, Microsoft is introducing app-centric management for admin app installation, replacing the "Installed apps" feature. This change allows administrators to install apps for users, groups, or the entire organization, streamlining the app deployment process. The rollout for this feature is occurring in phases, with completion expected by late May 2025. (mc.merill.net)
These updates reflect Microsoft's commitment to providing administrators with more granular control over app management, ensuring that only secure and compliant applications are utilized within their organizations.
Source: Neowin Microsoft details "major" Teams change for third-party apps' settings but you might miss out
