Query on License

Question

Hi All,

I am using a Microsoft 365 E5 license. One of my users is unable to create a workgroup in Microsoft Places.Is Microsoft Places included with the Microsoft 365 E5 license, or does it require a separate license?Also, is this a new feature? Could someone please guide me on Microsoft Places features and licensing requirements?

Answer 1

Hello Glenn Maxwell,

Thank you for posting your question in the Microsoft Q&A forum!

I understand that you have confusion when using a Microsoft 365 E5 license. That's very understandable and believe me you're not alone. I am here to help you out.
As your concerns, yes, Microsoft Places is included with Microsoft 365 E5. E5 users get Microsoft Places Core features by default, no separate license is required for basic functionality.
Some advanced features require extra licenses:

Places Premium features (e.g., Places Finder, Places Explorer, desk booking) require Microsoft Teams Premium.

AI-driven features require Microsoft 365 Copilot.

Is it new? Yes. Microsoft Places is a relatively new workplace app, moving to general availability in late 2024 with ongoing licensing updates.

If a user can’t create a workgroup, it’s usually due to feature scope (Core vs Premium) or permissions/configuration, not the E5 license itself. For more information, please check it here: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/places/places-overview

I hope this will help with your situation. Please feel free to reach back if you have further update or more questions.

Best Regards,

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Answer 2

Microsoft Places is included with Microsoft 365 E5 licenses, as it offers core features that are accessible with this subscription. However, some premium features of Microsoft Places require a Teams Premium subscription, and AI-driven features necessitate a Microsoft 365 Copilot subscription. Therefore, while the basic functionality should be available to your user with an E5 license, additional features may require separate licenses.

Microsoft Places is a relatively new AI-powered workplace app designed for flexible work, helping organizations optimize space management and facilitate in-person connections among employees. It supports individual desk booking and requires a well-structured hierarchy of buildings, floors, and workspaces to function effectively.

If your user is having trouble creating a workgroup, it may be worth checking if they have the necessary permissions and if any additional licenses are required for the specific features they are trying to access.

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References:

• Microsoft Places overview
• Understand the Microsoft 365 E3 and E5 Extra Features license
• Microsoft Purview service description
• Windows 365 Frontline licensing