How to Configure Direct Routing with Azure Communication Services

Azure Communication Services (ACS) allows developers and organizations to embed real-time communication such as voice, video, chat, and SMS directly into applications.

One powerful capability is Direct Routing, which allows Azure Communication Services to connect to your own Session Border Controller (SBC) and existing telephony infrastructure.

This means you can route calls between Azure and your own SIP environment, PSTN provider, or PBX.

In this article we walk through the step-by-step process of configuring Direct Routing with Azure Communication Services.

Microsoft Teams Platform, Developers & Frontline: What's New at Microsoft Ignite 2025

The final part of the Ignite 2025 deep-dive series highlights Microsoft’s latest advancements across the Teams platform, developer tools, and frontline solutions. This year’s updates focus on improved app governance, AI-driven development, and simplified onboarding for frontline workers.

Security & Compliance Visibility for All Apps and Agents

Teams Admin Center now provides full visibility into:

• Security posture
• Compliance frameworks
• Permission usage
• Risk ratings

These insights are available not only for certified apps but also for uncertified and non-attested apps, offering organisations a more complete governance overview.

Microsoft Teams Security & Fundamentals: What's New at Microsoft Ignite 2025

Microsoft Ignite 2025 delivered major advancements in the security and administration capabilities of Microsoft Teams. With new threat protections, deeper analytics, and improved admin automation, Teams continues to strengthen its foundation for secure, large-scale enterprise collaboration.

Copilot in the Teams Admin Center

Copilot now assists administrators directly within the Teams Admin Center.

Key functions include:

• Reviewing call quality issues
• Summarising policy configurations
• Highlighting misconfigurations
• Suggesting optimisation steps
• Helping set up protected meetings

This accelerates troubleshooting and reduces admin workload.

Microsoft Teams Chat & Collaboration: What's New at Microsoft Ignite 2025

Ignite 2025 introduced significant enhancements to Microsoft Teams Chat & Collaboration. With a unified Copilot experience, smarter collaboration spaces, and improved external sharing, Teams continues to strengthen its position as the central hub for teamwork.

A Unified Copilot Experience Across Teams

Microsoft has aligned the Copilot experience across:

• Chats
• Channels
• Meetings

This means Copilot now responds consistently regardless of context — delivering:

• Smart message rewrites
• Context-aware summaries
• Conversation insights
• Suggested next steps

Teams Mode for Microsoft 365 Copilot

One of the biggest updates is Teams Mode, enabling collaborative AI in group chats.

Microsoft Teams Devices: What's New at Microsoft Ignite 2025

Microsoft Ignite 2025 introduced a new wave of Teams-certified devices built for hybrid work, frontline mobility, and high-quality collaboration spaces. From rugged Teams Phones to advanced videobars and hot-desking docks, this year’s lineup expands what organisations can deploy across their digital workplace.

Yealink MP66W – Wi-Fi Teams Phone

A rugged, Wi-Fi-enabled Teams Phone designed for mobile and frontline workers.

Key features:

• Full Wi-Fi mobility
• Durable housing
• Long-lasting battery
• AI-powered noise cancellation
• Dedicated emergency alert button

This device is ideal for warehouses, logistics, healthcare, and field operations.

Microsoft Teams Rooms: What's New at Microsoft Ignite 2025

Microsoft Ignite 2025 brought several important updates to Microsoft Teams Rooms, enhancing presenter capabilities, improving hybrid meeting experiences, and aligning Windows and Android room systems.

Presenter View Controls for Teams Rooms on Android

Teams Rooms on Android now offer full presenter view controls, including:

• Switching between attendee and presenter views
• Green room access
• Off-stage and on-stage modes
• Parity with Teams Rooms on Windows (released earlier in 2025)

This gives presenters more autonomy and ensures a consistent experience across device platforms.

Microsoft Teams Webinars & Town Halls: What's New at Microsoft Ignite 2025

Microsoft Ignite 2025 introduced a strong set of enhancements for Webinars and Town Halls, focusing on better presenter control, richer analytics, improved production quality, and new immersive experiences.

Enhanced Presenter Tools

Microsoft has improved the presenter experience with:

• Integrated Q&A
• More robust moderation options
• Polling enhancements
• Cleaner presenter interfaces

These updates help organizations deliver more polished Town Halls and webinars without requiring complex third-party tools.

Presenter Analytics (Teams Premium)

Teams Premium now includes Presenter Analytics, offering insights such as: