WhatsApp, owned by Meta, has unveiled a new feature that allows users to share their screens during video calls. This move by Meta, led by CEO Mark Zuckerberg, demonstrates the company’s ambition to compete with established video-conferencing platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Skype.
An Interface Similar to Popular Platforms
The new WhatsApp screen sharing feature, as illustrated by Zuckerberg in his Facebook and Instagram posts, exhibits an interface resembling that of Google Meet and Zoom. The screen being shared takes up the majority of the display, while participants in the video call appear in small tiles on the right side. By clicking the arrow icon, denoting the ‘share’ option, users can readily share their screens.
In addition to screen sharing, Meta has also introduced Landscape mode to video calls on its social network platform. This mode enhances legibility by rendering text and graphics more readable on smartphones, the primary device through which WhatsApp is accessed.
A Gradual Rollout to All Users
While Android beta testers have had access to this feature for a few weeks, Meta is now gradually making it accessible to all WhatsApp users worldwide. The company has commenced rolling out the features on iOS, Android, and Windows devices. If the feature is currently unavailable, rest assured that it will be made accessible in due course as Meta adopts a phased approach to its implementation.
Recent Feature Additions
Besides screen sharing, WhatsApp has recently introduced the ability to share short video messages on the platform. By tapping the mic icon, conventionally used for sending voice messages, users can now switch to a video camera icon and quickly send video messages of up to 60 seconds. These messages are displayed in a circular format within the chat interface.
Advancing Collaboration on WhatsApp
The introduction of screen sharing on WhatsApp brings significant benefits to users, particularly those who rely on the platform for work-related video calls. With this new feature, individuals can seamlessly share their screens, facilitating more effective collaboration. Whether it’s presenting documents, slideshows, or websites, WhatsApp now offers a solution that aligns with the capabilities of established video-conferencing platforms.
WhatsApp’s expansion from a messaging app to a comprehensive communication tool is evident with the introduction of screen sharing. This feature, along with landscape mode and the ability to share short video messages, demonstrates Meta’s commitment to enhancing the user experience on WhatsApp. As the company continues to bridge the gap between traditional video-conferencing platforms and messaging apps, users can expect further innovations that push the boundaries of communication technology.
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