WhatsApp Announced Screen Sharing Feature For Android Users
WhatsApp announced a significant update, introducing a screen-sharing feature for Android users. This new functionality takes inspiration from work-centric video calls platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams and aims to improve the user experience on WhatsApp calls.
The screen-sharing feature will record and display the contents of your screen with the person on the other end of a video call. Users will notice a new icon, a phone with an arrow pointing out of it, which represents the feature and sits alongside other longstanding tools like switching cameras, muting, and disabling video at the bottom of WhatsApp calls.
Upon clicking the new button, a prompt will appear asking users if they wish to “Start recording or casting with WhatsApp?” This prompt also includes a disclaimer that the company will have access to any passwords, photos, or payment details displayed during screen sharing. Users can then decide to proceed by clicking “Start now” and have the option to stop sharing their screen at any point during the call.
As of now, the feature is only available to select Android beta testers. It is expected to roll out to more users in the coming weeks. However, it might not work on older Android models, larger group calls, or with individuals who do not have the latest version of WhatsApp downloaded. For users with iPhones or iPads, Apple introduced a similar screen-sharing feature into FaceTime calls earlier this year.
This update represents a significant step in enhancing WhatsApp’s functionality, providing users with more options to share and interact during video calls.
