WhatsApp has recently launched a screen sharing feature, aiming to enhance the video call experience for its users.
This move positions WhatsApp in direct competition with established video conferencing platforms such as Microsoft Meet, Google Meet, Zoom, and Apple's FaceTime.
Mark Zuckerberg, Meta's CEO, announced this development on both Facebook and Instagram.
With this feature, users can share various content, including documents, images, and even their shopping carts, during video calls.
Initially tested on a select group of Android beta users in May, the screen sharing option is now accessible via the 'Share' icon, allowing users to share specific apps or their entire screen.
This functionality mirrors the screen sharing features found in platforms like Google Meet and Zoom. WhatsApp has confirmed a phased rollout of this feature across Android, iOS, and Windows Desktop platforms.
In addition to screen sharing, WhatsApp has also introduced video calling in Landscape mode, providing a broader and more immersive viewing experience compared to the previous Portrait mode.
This landscape support can be particularly beneficial when sharing screens.
WhatsApp's video calling feature has been available since November 2016, and the platform continues to enhance its offerings to remain competitive.
Recent updates include the introduction of picture-in-picture support for video calls on iOS and the ability to share brief video messages in chats.
Screen sharing has long been a staple feature in many video conferencing apps. In 2021, Apple upgraded its FaceTime service with SharePlay, allowing iOS users to natively share their screens.
WhatsApp has taken this a step further by making the feature available to Android, iOS, and desktop users.
