Targeted Release

Targeted Release is the Microsoft 365 release ring that receives features earlier than Standard Release — typically 2 to 4 weeks ahead, sometimes longer. Two modes: Targeted Release for the entire organisation (whole tenant in Targeted) or Targeted Release for selected users (just the people you choose, while everyone else stays on Standard). Configured in the Microsoft 365 admin center under Settings → Org settings → Release preferences. Best practice: put IT itself and a small pilot population on Targeted Release so they encounter changes before the wider organisation does. Different from public previews, which are explicit opt-in betas; Targeted Release is just an earlier slot in the production rollout schedule.