WhatsApp introduces screen sharing feature to enhance video calling experience

Pranav Bhardwaj

WhatsApp

WhatsApp, the popular messaging platform, has unveiled its latest feature, screen sharing, aiming to elevate the video calling experience for its users. This move puts WhatsApp in direct competition with established video conferencing apps such as Google Meet, Zoom, and Apple’s FaceTime.

The announcement was made by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg through a Facebook post and his Instagram channel. The newly introduced screen-sharing feature allows users to share a variety of content, including documents, photos, and even shopping carts, with their contacts during video calls.

 

Initially rolled out to select beta testers on the Android platform in late May, the screen-sharing feature is easily accessible by tapping or clicking the ‘Share’ icon. Users are given the option to share a specific application or their entire screen, mirroring the functionality of well-known video conferencing platforms like Google Meet and Zoom.

According to TechCrunch, WhatsApp is gradually rolling out the screen-sharing feature to its users across Android, iOS, and Windows Desktop platforms in a phased manner. While not immediately available to everyone, it is expected to be accessible to all users soon.

In addition to screen sharing, WhatsApp has also introduced support for video calling in Landscape mode, providing a wider and more immersive viewing experience compared to the existing Portrait mode. This enhancement aligns well with the screen-sharing feature, offering users a comprehensive way to engage with their contacts.