Abu Zar Mishwani
In a move to improve video calls, WhatsApp now lets you share your screen during video calls. This puts it in competition with popular video conferencing apps like Microsoft Meet, Google Meet, Zoom, and Apple’s FaceTime.
Mark Zuckerberg, the CEO of Meta, revealed a fresh update today. Through a Facebook post and on his Instagram, he announced a new feature that enables users to share documents, photos, and even shopping carts with friends during video calls.
After initially rolling out to select Android beta testers in late May, WhatsApp’s screen-sharing feature is now available to users.
By tapping the “Share” icon, you can share a particular app or your entire screen, similar to how screen sharing functions on popular video conferencing platforms such as Google Meet and Zoom.
WhatsApp stated that the screen-sharing functionality is being gradually introduced to Android, iOS, and Windows Desktop users. As a result, you might not spot the feature instantly, but it should become accessible to you shortly.
In addition to screen sharing, WhatsApp has also introduced Landscape mode for video calls. This mode provides a broader and more engaging visual experience than the regular Portrait mode. The Landscape mode could prove handy, especially when utilizing screen sharing during calls.
For more than six years, video calling has been a feature of WhatsApp, becoming available to all users in November 2016. Yet, the messaging app is continuously enhancing this service to remain competitive.
Recently, WhatsApp introduced picture-in-picture functionality for video calls on iOS. Additionally, it now allows sharing brief video messages within chats, recognizing the importance of video communication for many users.
Screen sharing has played a significant role in video-conferencing applications, even those designed for everyday users. In 2021, Apple upgraded its FaceTime offering with SharePlay, allowing iOS users to easily share their screens. WhatsApp has taken a step further by expanding this capability to Android, iOS, and desktop users.