Observed Signal · Jun 14, 2024 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
WhatsApp Updates Calls: Audio Sharing, 32 Participants, Clarity
WhatsApp unveils three major updates to its nine-year-old call feature, improving cross-device communication. Screen sharing can now include audio, allowing presenters to share sound when presenting videos or demos during calls. On both mobile and desktop, WhatsApp Calls support up to 32 participants, with voice chats also capped at 32, expanding collaboration for teams and large conversations. The call UI now centers the active speaker automatically, making it easier to follow who is speaking. WhatsApp notes ongoing improvements to audio and video quality, driven by the MLow codec that reduces background noise and echoes and delivers higher video resolution on faster connections, even in weaker networks. Additionally, video calls can be conducted using Meta's AI-powered Smart Glasses developed with Ray-Ban, signaling broader exploration of hands-free communication. The updates follow the 2023 screen-sharing rollout and reinforce WhatsApp as a multi-device collaboration tool.
Major platform feature update from Meta/WhatsApp; impacts cross-device calling experiences and communication UX
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Screen sharing now supports audio during WhatsApp Calls.
- Calls support up to 32 participants on mobile and desktop (including voice chats).
- Active speakers are auto-centered in the call UI.
- MLow Codec introduced to improve reliability, reduce background noise and echoes, and enhance video resolution on faster connections.
- Video calls can be conducted using Meta's AI-powered Smart Glasses with Ray-Ban.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mappedOntology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
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