How Can I Make a Regular Phone Call Using Microsoft Teams?

PSTN is the traditional phone system, often referred to as a landline, that has been around for many years. With rapid innovation in the sector, everything changed, and people became accustomed to internet mobile communications over apps like WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet. 

When it is reported that Microsoft is enabling PSTN calling with Teams Phone, it essentially means that the company is allowing users to make and receive traditional phone calls (landline or mobile) directly through the Microsoft Teams platform. By integrating PSTN capabilities into Teams, Microsoft is bridging the gap between the old and modern form of communication.

How to Make a Regular Phone Call on Microsoft Teams

1. Open Microsoft Teams: Launch the Teams app on your computer, laptop, or mobile device.
2. Dial a Number: Look for the dial pad icon/ Calls icon (usually a phone-shaped button). 
3. Enter the Number: Type in the phone number you want to call, including the area code.
4. Place the Call: Hit the call button.

It's as simple as that! You'll be connected to a regular phone line, just like making a call from your traditional phone.

Benefits of Using Microsoft Teams for Phone Calls

• All-in-one Convenience: Combine your chats, video calls, and now, phone calls into one app. No more juggling multiple devices.
• Save Money: Many people find that using Teams for phone calls can save them money on their phone bills.
• Improved Productivity: Quickly switch between chat, video calls, and phone calls without leaving Teams.
• Better Customer Service: Businesses can provide a more consistent customer experience by offering multiple ways to connect.

Microsoft Teams Phone Plans

Feature/Plan	Microsoft Teams Phone Standard	Teams Phone with pay-as-you-go calling (country zone 1)	Teams Phone with domestic calling (country zone 1 – UK/Canada)	Teams Phone with international calling
Price (CAD)	$10.90/user/month	$13.60/user/month	$20.40/user/month	$43.40/user/month
Subscription Type	Annual (auto-renews)	Annual (auto-renews)	Annual (auto-renews)	Annual (auto-renews)
Cloud-based Phone System	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Make/Receive Voice and Video Calls	Yes (PSTN or internet)	Yes	Yes	Yes
Join/Transfer Calls Between Devices	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Add Operator PSTN Service	Yes (Operator Connect/Direct Routing)	N/A	N/A	N/A
Combine with Operator Connect Mobile	Yes	N/A	N/A	N/A
99.999% Uptime SLA	Yes	N/A	N/A	N/A
Phone Number Provided	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Inbound Calling	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited	Unlimited
Outbound Calling	N/A	Metered	Domestic	International
Call Queue	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Auto Attendant	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Call Recording	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Call Transcription	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Unlimited Meetings	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Unlimited Messaging	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
File Sharing	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Tasks/Polling	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cloud Storage	No	10 GB/user	10 GB/user	10 GB/user
Domestic Calling	N/A	N/A	Yes	Yes
International Calling	N/A	N/A	No	Yes

Real-Life Examples

• Family and Friends: Stay in touch with loved ones, even if they don't use Teams, by calling them directly from the app.
• Small Businesses: Handle customer calls, place orders, and communicate with suppliers efficiently.
• Remote Workers: Make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection, just like being in the office.

Addressing Common Concerns

• Is it safe? Yes, Microsoft Teams has strong security measures to protect your calls and data.
• Do I need special equipment? No, all you need is a device with the Teams app and an internet connection.
• What if my internet is slow? While a good internet connection is ideal, Teams can often adjust to slower speeds. If you experience issues, try using Wi-Fi instead of mobile data.
• Can I use Teams for emergency calls? Currently, emergency calling is not available in all regions. Check your local regulations for more information.

By combining the convenience of modern communication with the familiarity of traditional phone calls, Microsoft Teams offers a versatile solution for both personal and professional use.