EPOS Insights: Native Bluetooth® for Microsoft Teams

Native Bluetooth® for Microsoft Teams

In today’s modern workplaces, flexibility, reliability and seamless connectivity are more important than ever. For users of Microsoft Teams, the audio experience is a key part of daily productivity: clear calls, seamless switching between devices, and minimal friction. Here’s where native Bluetooth connectivity for Teams-certified headsets comes into play.

Native Bluetooth® for Teams-Certified Devices

Traditionally, professional headsets and speakerphones certified for Microsoft Teams use a USB dongle to connect to the PC.

Native Bluetooth refers to a headset or peripheral that connects directly over the PC’s built-in Bluetooth interface - without requiring a USB dongle. The device has been tested and certified by Microsoft (under the Teams certification programme) to ensure full Teams functionality (including call controls, mute sync, Teams button) when using Bluetooth directly.

Devices certified for Microsoft Teams over native Bluetooth offer the same “plug & play” experience as dongle-based devices, but with fewer accessories and greater freedom.

Why native Bluetooth® matters for end-users and IT managers

For users:
No need to keep and connect a USB dongle whenever changing location or device.
Direct connection through the PC’s built-in Bluetooth reduces port usage and potential issues caused by lost dongles or damaged ports.
Certified Teams controls, including mute, call answer and hang-up, function reliably to provide a familiar Teams experience.

For IT managers:
Simplifies asset management by reducing the number of accessories to manage.
Supports hot-desking, hybrid working and movement between workplace and home-office environments.
Helps ensure reliable Teams call performance, with certification confirming that audio quality and control standards have been met.

Technical considerations

Native Bluetooth® performance depends on the PC’s hardware, operating system, Bluetooth version and drivers. Before deployment, check compatibility and consider the working environment, user requirements and potential wireless interference.

Native Bluetooth® from EPOS

IMPACT 1000 and IMPACT 500 are the first EPOS headsets for office professionals to support Microsoft Teams over native Bluetooth®. IMPACT 500 is available in two variants, with and without a dongle, while the IMPACT 1000 Series comprises five variants - giving customers a choice of connectivity to suit their deployment requirements.