Microsoft Teams’ New Animated Meeting Backgrounds Vs. Custom Virtual Office Backgrounds

Microsoft announced that animated backgrounds would be available for Teams meetings starting in June 2023. While the update adds novelty and visual flair, the question remains: are animated backgrounds the right solution for professional meetings? Or would your team benefit more from high-quality, branded, and customizable backgrounds from Custom Virtual Office?

What’s New with Microsoft Teams? 

Microsoft has slowly been evolving its virtual background feature since 2020. Recent updates include:

• Snapchat Lens integration: In April 2023, Microsoft partnered with Snap to add filters and AR effects.

• New still image collections: Fresh background packs rolled out in early May 2023.

• Animated backgrounds: Dynamic video files that loop in the background, officially supported as of June 2023.

These changes are designed to make video calls more interactive. However, what works well for a fun, casual meeting may not always serve a professional purpose. And for businesses trying to maintain brand consistency, animated Teams backgrounds may create more challenges than solutions.

Animated Backgrounds vs. Professional Custom Virtual Backgrounds

Animated backgrounds can certainly grab attention, but that isn’t always a positive. They may:

• Distract attendees from presentations or key talking points.

• Affect accessibility if movement or flashing elements overwhelm participants.

• Consume bandwidth and reduce call quality on weaker connections.

In contrast, Custom Virtual Office backgrounds are designed with professionalism in mind. Instead of distracting motion, they offer clean, high-resolution designs that reinforce brand credibility. Options include:

• Branded office environments that display your company’s logo.

• Stylish layouts tailored to industries such as finance, marketing, therapy, or freelancing.

• Seasonal and festive backgrounds to keep meetings relevant and engaging without sacrificing professionalism.

Cons of Animated Backgrounds for Virtual Meetings

Yes, animated backgrounds can bring movement and creativity to a virtual meeting. However, it’s easy for them to cross the line into being distracting or unprofessional. Movement on screen can draw attention away from the speaker, reduce focus, and even cause fatigue during longer calls.

In a business environment where clarity and credibility are critical, subtlety often works better than gimmicks. Custom Virtual Office backgrounds strike this balance—giving you endless ways to show creativity through design, color, and branding without overwhelming participants.

Why Custom Virtual Office Is the Better Choice for Backgrounds 

While Microsoft focuses on entertainment-style upgrades, Custom Virtual Office prioritizes customization, branding, and workplace professionalism. Here’s why our solutions stand out:

• Consistent Branding: Add your logo and align with your company’s visual identity in every meeting.

• Wide Variety of Styles: Choose from modern offices, cozy lounges, creative studios, or festive holiday themes.

• Optimized for All Platforms: Works seamlessly across Teams, Zoom, Google Meet, and more.

• Instant Professionalism: Employees don’t have to worry about messy or distracting real-life backgrounds.

This flexibility ensures that your virtual presence matches your business goals—whether you’re meeting with clients, presenting to executives, or celebrating with your team.

How Custom Virtual Backgrounds Help You Stand Out 

You don’t need animation to stand out. With Custom Virtual Office, you can:

• Choose backgrounds with unique layouts and furniture styles that mirror real offices.

• Incorporate your logo for a polished corporate look.

• Select from our Popular Backgrounds Collection to create a professional and engaging atmosphere for every meeting.

Examples from our popular collection include:

• Modern Executive Office Backgrounds that give you a sleek, high-level corporate presence.

• Conference Room Virtual Backgrounds for a collaborative and team-oriented feel.

• Minimalist Workspace Designs that keep the focus on you and your message.

• Creative Studio Backgrounds that add personality and energy while remaining professional.

These designs make it easy to match your virtual environment to the tone of your meeting—whether it’s formal, collaborative, or creative. Unlike Microsoft’s animated Teams backgrounds, Custom Virtual Office backgrounds provide professionalism, branding, and consistency that support your business goals.

How to Customize Microsoft Teams Backgrounds With Virtual Office 

Microsoft Teams lets you upload your own virtual backgrounds, which means you can use Custom Virtual Office backgrounds directly inside Teams. Whether you want a premium office setting or a festive seasonal design, you can easily replace distracting animated backgrounds with a polished, brand-focused solution.

For the best impression:

• Choose premium office packages with your company logo.

• Rotate backgrounds seasonally to keep things fresh.

• Encourage employees to use consistent branding across Teams meetings.

This ensures your organization is always represented in the best possible light.

Choosing Professional Custom Office Backgrounds Over Animated

Microsoft’s animated backgrounds are fun, but they aren’t built for professional consistency. For businesses and teams that want to project credibility, maintain brand identity, and reduce distractions, Custom Virtual Office backgrounds are the smarter choice.

With endless customization options, seasonal themes, and branded designs, you get the perfect mix of creativity and professionalism—without the fatigue or chaos of constantly moving images.