How do I create or sign into a microsoft account?

If you already use Outlook or Hotmail, use that account. Otherwise, go to account.microsoft.com and create a free account with your email address.

How do I download microsoft teams?

Computer: go to microsoft.com/teams and click "Download Teams." iPhone: App Store. Android: Google Play Store. Install and open the app.

How do I sign in to teams?

Open Teams and sign in with your Microsoft account email and password. The app may ask to send you a verification code — check your email or phone.

How do I start a video call?

Tap the "Meet" button (video camera icon). Choose "Start Meeting" for an instant call or "Schedule Meeting" for a future time.

How do I invite people to the call?

Copy the meeting link and send it by text or email. Or type their name or email address to invite them directly through Teams.

How do I use the call controls?

During the call, use the bottom toolbar to toggle your camera and microphone, share your screen, open the chat, or send reactions. Click the three dots for background effects.

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Microsoft Teams is a popular video calling and messaging app used by many workplaces, schools, and families. The good news is there is a free version that anyone can use for personal video calls, group chats, and screen sharing — you do not need a paid Microsoft 365 subscription.

To get started, you need a Microsoft account. If you have ever used Outlook, Hotmail, Xbox, or Skype, you already have one. If not, you can create a free account at account.microsoft.com. You will need an email address and a password.

Next, download Microsoft Teams. On a computer, go to microsoft.com/teams and click "Download Teams." On an iPhone, find it in the App Store. On an Android, find it in the Google Play Store. Install the app and sign in with your Microsoft account.

When you open Teams for the first time, you will see the main screen with options for Chat, Calendar, Calls, and Activity. To start a video call right away, tap or click the "Meet" button (it looks like a video camera). You can start an instant meeting or schedule one for later.

To invite someone to a video call, you have several options. You can share the meeting link by copying it and sending it via text or email. You can also type their name or email address to invite them directly if they are already in your Teams contacts.

During a video call, you will see controls at the bottom of the screen: camera on/off, microphone on/off, screen sharing, chat, and reactions. You can also change your background by clicking the three dots (more options) and selecting "Video Effects" — this lets you blur your background or choose a virtual background.

Teams works well on slower internet connections because it automatically adjusts video quality. If your connection is weak, you can turn off your camera and use audio only to improve the experience.

The free version of Teams supports meetings with up to 100 participants for up to 60 minutes, which is more than enough for most personal and small group calls.