huge demand for video calling features and this is likely why Facebook has opted to launch the new feature now.
Zoom has raised security concerns in recent weeks. s have been facing a variety of issues, ranging from 40 minutes. While other major video-conferencing apps, like Skype and Microsoft Teams, are proficient platforms, they are primarily designed for professional communications. Therefore, Zoom has the unique selling point of being simpler and a more flexible interface, making it perfect for new s.
With Messenger Rooms, Facebook seems to be gunning for Zoom's niche of a group video chat facility that is easy to use, and especially for first-time s. The feature was announced along with a few other updates to the company's products and services. For now, it is only available in select countries. although a global expansion is expected to happen in the coming weeks. For those s in a ed location, Messenger Rooms is available for both desktop and mobile.
What Messenger Rooms Offers
One of the highlights of Messenger Rooms is that even those without a Facebook can a video chat with an invitation. However, to create a meeting room and start chatting, one will need access to Facebook Messenger in general. Just like Zoom, s can make rooms for meetings and let others . The option to do this is on the Messenger apps' people or chat pages. Once a room is created, assigned an activity, and privacy settings chosen, s can start inviting people to . Rooms can be shared through newsfeed, groups and events as well. Those who are not using Messenger or Facebook can with a link. As in Zoom, s can also remove people from calls and lock the rooms if they want.
For those taking part in chat through the Messenger app, there are many additional features to explore. including Augmented Reality effects, AI-driven immersive 360-degree backgrounds, as well as mood lighting. At present, it's not clear if Facebook will allow custom backgrounds like Zoom does. However, the full version of Messenger Rooms can host up to 50 participants in a single chat, and has no limit on call-time - unlike with Zoom's 40-minute limit on a single session.
Facebook also explained that in the future, s will be able to create rooms through Instagram Direct, WhatsApp, and Portal. This is a smart move since a lot of s overlap between these and often have to depend on apps like Zoom for a group video chat with their friends or s. If Facebook can integrate Messenger Rooms with these products and services, then it might lure more s away from third-party video-conferencing apps. The social media giant has also stressed the security benefits of Messenger Rooms, reserving an Zoom's security issues.
Source: Facebook