WhatsApp recently made significant improvements to its video calling feature both for mobile and desktop users. One of the key updates announced was the expansion of the participant limit for group video calls. Previously, users were limited to having just eight participants in a group video call on the WhatsApp Desktop app. However, with the latest update, this limit has been increased to allow up to 32 members to join the same call. This enhancement opens up new possibilities for larger gatherings and more collaborative discussions among users.
Another notable improvement in the latest WhatsApp update is the ability for users to share their audio while sharing their screen with other participants. This feature adds a new level of engagement and interaction during video calls, especially when watching videos together. Users will now be able to share the audio playing on their device, providing a more immersive experience for everyone involved. This enhancement not only improves the overall user experience but also creates new opportunities for creative collaboration on the platform.
In addition to expanding the participant limit and enhancing screen sharing capabilities, WhatsApp introduced a new ‘speaker spotlight’ feature. This feature is designed to highlight the current speaker during a video call, making it easier for participants to identify who is speaking at any given time. The ‘speaker spotlight’ feature is particularly useful in large group calls where it can be challenging to keep track of multiple speakers. By spotlighting the current speaker, WhatsApp aims to streamline communication and improve overall engagement during video calls.
To further enhance the quality of video calls, Meta Platforms introduced a new tool called the Meta Low Bitrate (MLow) codec. This codec is designed to compress the audio and video data captured during calls for more efficient transfer over the internet. Despite the common trade-off between compression and quality, Meta emphasizes that the MLow codec offers an upgrade over the previous open-source Opus codec. This improvement results in better audio quality, especially in situations with slow-speed internet connections. The MLow codec, which was already available on other Meta platforms like Instagram and Messenger, is now being rolled out to WhatsApp users to enhance their video calling experience.
The latest updates on WhatsApp video calling features bring a range of enhancements that aim to improve user experience, facilitate collaboration, and enhance the overall quality of video calls. From expanded participant limits to enhanced screen sharing capabilities and a new speaker spotlight feature, WhatsApp continues to innovate its platform to meet the evolving needs of its users. Additionally, the introduction of the Meta Low Bitrate (MLow) codec demonstrates WhatsApp’s commitment to providing a seamless and high-quality video calling experience for users across all devices. Stay tuned for these new features rolling out to WhatsApp users in the coming weeks.
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