WhatsApp has rolled out a new update that significantly enhances its video calling capabilities. With this update, users can now participate in video calls with up to 32 people simultaneously, making it a much more versatile tool for large gatherings and virtual meetings.
Key Features of the WhatsApp Update
- 32-Person Video Calls:
- The maximum number of participants in a video call has been increased to 32, up from the previous limit of 8 for mobile devices and even lower limits for desktop users. This change makes WhatsApp a more powerful tool for both personal and professional group interactions.
- Enhanced Screen Sharing:
- Users can now share their screens along with audio, making it easier to collaborate, watch videos together, or give presentations. This feature is particularly beneficial for remote work and online learning environments.
- Automatic Speaker Highlighting:
- During video calls, the person speaking will automatically be highlighted, making it easier for participants to follow the conversation in larger groups. This feature is especially useful in meetings with many participants, where it can be challenging to keep track of who is speaking.
- Meta Low Bitrate (MLow) Codec:
- WhatsApp has introduced the Meta Low Bitrate (MLow) codec to improve audio quality in calls, even with low network bandwidth. This codec delivers twice the audio quality of the previously used Opus codec while consuming 10% less processing power. This technology is already in use on Instagram and Messenger calls, and now it’s being integrated into WhatsApp.
Practical Implications
- Large Group Interactions: Whether it’s a big family gathering, a large group of friends, or a professional meeting, the ability to host up to 32 participants in a single video call makes WhatsApp more accommodating for larger groups.
- Improved Remote Work and Learning: The enhanced screen sharing with audio will facilitate better collaboration and presentations during remote work and online classes.
- Better User Experience: The automatic speaker highlighting feature will make it easier to manage conversations in large group calls, ensuring that participants can easily identify who is speaking.
Conclusion
The new WhatsApp update with its increased video call capacity and improved screen sharing features offers significant enhancements for both personal and professional use. The introduction of the MLow codec further ensures that users can enjoy high-quality audio even with poor network conditions.
Would you find these new features beneficial for your use of WhatsApp? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more details, you can refer to the official announcements and reports on the new WhatsApp update .
