ElementLinux
vs
Microsoft Teams (new UI with AI features)Windows
Element as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Teams (new UI with AI features)
Updated
Our verdict
Element is a solid replacement for Microsoft Teams (new UI with AI features) if your organization values decentralization, end-to-end encryption, and open standards. It handles core collaboration needs: persistent group chat, voice/video calls, screen sharing, and bots. However, it lacks AI-powered meeting summaries and transcriptions, calendar integration with Outlook, and native file collaboration. Best for teams prioritizing privacy and self-hosting over enterprise AI features and Microsoft ecosystem tight integration.
- License
- AGPL-3.0-only OR GPL-3.0-only
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.12.32 (October 16, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- End-to-end encrypted voice and video conferencing with WebRTC
- Persistent group rooms with searchable history
- Real-time screen sharing during calls
- Cross-platform clients (desktop, mobile, web)
- Custom notifications and @mentions
What is different
- No built-in AI meeting transcription or summaries
- No native calendar integration; relies on external tools
- File sharing lacks collaborative editing like Teams + OneDrive
- No federation with Microsoft 365 or Teams users
- Bot ecosystem is smaller and less enterprise-focused
Opening your Microsoft Teams (new UI with AI features) files
Element does not support Microsoft Teams file formats directly. Files shared in Element are standard attachments (PDF, DOCX, etc.), so you can open them if they were originally sent from Teams. However, collaborative editing in real-time via Office Online is not possible. Shared files must be downloaded and opened locally with compatible software like LibreOffice. There is no automated export or import of Teams chat history or meeting records into Element.
Switching from Microsoft Teams (new UI with AI features) to Element, step by step
- Install Element via Flathub or official package for your distro
- Create a Matrix server or sign up with a hosted provider
- Invite team members using their Matrix IDs or public room links
- Set up rooms for each team or project, configure permissions
- Integrate bots for notifications or automation from the Element store
- Train users on notification settings and room management
Key features of Element
- End‑to‑end encrypted chat and calls
- Persistent rooms with unlimited history
- Customizable notifications and keyword alerts
- Bot integrations via the Element store
- Matrix federation for cross‑server communication
- Screen sharing and WebRTC video conferencing
- Desktop and mobile clients share the same account
- Wayland support via Flatpak
How to install Element on Linux
flatpak install flathub im.riot.RiotFrequently asked questions
Can Element connect to Microsoft Teams users?
No, Element cannot directly communicate with Microsoft Teams users. They operate on entirely different networks with no federation between Matrix and Microsoft's infrastructure.
Is calendar scheduling possible in Element?
Not natively. You must use external tools like Nextcloud or Google Calendar and share event links manually in rooms.
Does Element support AI-generated meeting summaries?
No. Element has no built-in AI features for transcription or meeting summaries. Recording and transcription require third-party tools or manual setup.
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