WhatsApp is upgrading its video-calling chops. The Meta-owned platform is enhancing its calls with a brand new screen-sharing characteristic, a better participant rely and a speaker highlight to attempt to make the platform a extra viable competitor to Zoom, FaceTime and Google Meet.
Display screen sharing may very well be helpful for watching movies collectively, sharing content material that isn’t simply shareable or troubleshooting your mother and father’ gadgets. It additionally permits for audio sharing, so you possibly can simply chat with others whereas taking a look at their display.
WhatsApp additionally expanded its participant rely to 32 individuals on video calls. The brand new cap applies to all platforms. It’s a major increase from the earlier restrict of eight individuals, first rolled out in 2020 as pandemic lockdowns kicked into full gear.
Speaker highlight is one other tweak in WhatsApp’s replace (which is already an ordinary characteristic on many different calling platforms). In a gaggle name, the individual speaking seems first within the row of members, and their image is highlighted, making it simpler to establish who has the proverbial mic.
WhatsApp additionally highlighted its latest swap to the MLow codec for clearer calls. The brand new compression ought to clear up noise and echo cancellation, which is helpful for noisy environments. Additionally, video calls will stream in a better decision in case your community is quick sufficient to help it.