In a move that further blurs the lines between messaging platforms and video conferencing tools, WhatsApp has unveiled its latest feature: screen sharing during video calls. This addition, announced by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg on both Facebook and Instagram, pits WhatsApp against the likes of Microsoft Meet, Google Meet, Zoom, and even Apple’s FaceTime.
According to an article by TechCrunch published earlier today, WhatsApp’s screen sharing capability allows users to share a variety of content during video calls, from documents and photos to the contents of their shopping carts. Initially tested with a select group of Android beta users in late May, the feature is now being rolled out in phases across Android, iOS, and Windows Desktop platforms. If you’re an avid WhatsApp user, you might not spot this feature immediately, but rest assured; it’s on its way.
Accessing this feature is a breeze. Users simply need to tap or click the ‘Share’ icon during a video call. From there, they can choose to share a specific app or their entire screen, mirroring the functionality found in established video conferencing platforms like Google Meet and Zoom.
But that’s not all. Alongside screen sharing, WhatsApp has also introduced video calling in Landscape mode. This new orientation aims to provide users with a broader, more immersive viewing experience compared to the existing Portrait mode. This enhancement is particularly handy when sharing screens, ensuring that shared content is displayed in all its glory.
