Microsoft Teams launches creepy AI webcam trick that cleans up your dirty room

Google Meet and Zoom need to get on board.
By
Chance Townsend
 on 
Microsoft Teams webcam call
Click "Clean Up" on Microsoft Teams to declutter your background on a webcam call. Credit: Microsoft

There's something a bit dystopian about an artificial intelligence tool that can tell my room is a mess, but it's too late for that now.

During Microsoft's Ignite keynote on Wednesday, the tech giant announced a new "decorate your background" feature.

The novel perk uses generative AI that takes your background on Teams calls and "dresses it up" by clearing out clutter and adding decor. Based on the video Microsoft showed, the AI can create a myriad of objects including string lights, plants, and other seasonal decor.

Additionally, a voice isolation feature is being added to Teams. According to Microsoft, the AI will recognize your voice after you opt in and will be able to fully filter out background noise so you can be heard in busy environments. It's an impressive addition and something we also saw Apple commit to during the announcement of the iPhone 15 and iOS 17.

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This new Teams feature is one of the many new enhancements Microsoft announced at its Ignite keynote. The company is taking full advantage of its newly introduced Copilot AI, revealing several AI-enhanced QoL additions like real-time notes and transcriptions during meetings.

The new "decorate your background" Microsoft Teams tool will roll out to Premium in 2024.

Headshot of a Black man
Chance Townsend
Assistant Editor, General Assignments

Currently residing in Chicago, Illinois, Chance Townsend is the General Assignments Editor at Mashable covering tech, video games, dating apps, digital culture, and whatever else comes his way. He has a Master's in Journalism from the University of North Texas and is a proud orange cat father. His writing has also appeared in PC Mag and Mother Jones.

In his free time, he cooks, loves to sleep, and finds great enjoyment in Detroit sports.


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