Microsoft announces a new sharing experience for Microsoft 365 apps

Rabia Noureen

microsoft 365

Microsoft has announced some important updates to improve the sharing experience in Microsoft 365 apps, including OneDrive, SharePoint, and more. It is important to note that some of these features are available now, while others are expected to roll out later this year.

First off, the company is introducing a feature that will bring the ability to easily change permissions by using the SharePoint or OneDrive share controls. The new quick permissions dropdown menu will let users provide read-only or editing permissions to a specific user or group. Users will now be able to find the Link settings option within the quick permissions dropdown, allowing them to change sharing permissions and links. Both Link settings and Quick permissions now generally available in SharePoint and OneDrive for Business.

thumbnail image 1 captioned Quick permissions

Later this year, Microsoft 365 apps will also get an improved Copy link experience, which will add an option to create a shareable link for files and other content. The firm is replacing the existing Copy link button with a footer link for setting access and edit permissions for recipients. The Microsoft 365 roadmap suggests that this update is coming in November 2021.

thumbnail image 3 captioned Updated Copy link experience

Another important new update for OneDrive is an improved way of managing the access settings for shared files. The sharing dialog will add a new “Shared with” section at the bottom, which will let users track the number of people who have access to the shared document. Microsoft is also adding new controls to the Manage Access dialog box, allowing users to tweak or revoke permissions by clicking on individual names or groups. Both these features are expected to arrive in November this year.

thumbnail image 6 captioned View and update the permissions for each person directly from the People list

Last but not least, Microsoft also announced today that it’s finally updating the Share menu that is currently available in OneDrive, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, and other Microsoft 365 apps. This update will make it easier to access additional sharing options such as manage access settings, copy link, email, and Microsoft Teams chat. The new Share menu dropdown will be available by the end of this year. If you’re interested, we invite you to check out the OneDrive blog for more details on these updates.