FlipGrid flips out? Microsoft folds standalone app into teams for Education
In a move that has caused concern and disappointment among educators, Microsoft has announced they are discontinuing the standalone Flip (formally Flipgrid) apps.
Instead, they plan to integrate Flip's functionalities into Microsoft Teams for Education.
A staple in classrooms for nearly twelve years, Flip has empowered student voice and creativity through short video assignments. Educators, particularly those in Google Classroom districts in the USA, are worried that the integration with Teams will restrict FlipGrid's reach.
In an email to educators, Microsoft attempted to explain their reasoning behind the decision. They aim to streamline the number of apps teachers need to manage and integrate Flip into a more natural workflow within Teams for Education assignments.
Key Points from Microsoft's Email:
Focus on Streamlining: Microsoft says it is consolidating Flip functionalities within Teams for Education to reduce the number of apps teachers need.
Enhanced Functionality: They believe integrating Flip with Teams will improve the existing classroom management features available in Teams for Education.
Free Access for Eligible Schools: Microsoft emphasises that Teams for Education, including access to the Flip camera functionality, is free for eligible schools.
Timeline and Access:
Flip standalone apps will be unavailable in app stores by July 1st, 2024.
The Flip.com website will become view-only after July 1st.
Educators can download existing Flip videos until September 30th, 2024.
The educator community has taken to social media to express their concerns. Some, like Tara Potter, highlight the difficulty of transitioning Google Classroom users to Teams:
Others, like Miss Jami Shields, expressed disappointment, particularly since Microsoft's initial acquisition of FlipGrid was met with enthusiasm by educators who anticipated further development of the tool:
