WhatsApp is testing a major new feature like ZOOM, leaker claims
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WhatsApp is testing a major new feature that could put it in direct competition with ZOOM, leaker claims
- Screen sharing could soon be a feature of WhatsApp, speakers claim
- Obviously, any shared screens will also be recorded simultaneously
WhatsApp is getting closer to becoming a Zoom-like platform, after a major leak of the next update.
The tech giant is testing a screen sharing tool, according to WABetaInfo.
WABetaInfo claims that this feature will be rolled out through the Google Play Beta program – an early access service.
“WhatsApp is now rolling out a new feature that allows users to easily share their screen during a video call,” WABetaInfo wrote.
The leak has been widely applauded by users, joking, “Now we can actually gossip without having to keep sharing screenshots.”
Images shared by WABetaInfo suggest users have the option to share their screens by selecting a new option next to camera and microphone settings
“It appears that this feature is available to some beta testers who install the latest WhatsApp beta for Android 2.23.11.19 update from the Google Play Store,” WABetaInfo added.
Images revealed by WABetaInfo suggest that the screen sharing option during a call appears next to the camera and microphone settings.
Shared content ‘will be recorded’, but speakers claim this can be stopped at any time, as long as permission is given to WhatsApp.
It’s currently unclear if this feature will be available for group chats or older versions of Android that use legacy WhatsApp services.
After the WhatsApp rumors, Twitter was buzzing with excitement.
Some claimed the feature was what they “always wanted,” while others suggested it could come in handy at work.
“Always wanted this feature to teach my students,” said one user.
“Zooming with their 40 minute limitation is super annoying.
WhatsApp is also student-friendly because some kids are intimidated by Zoom. Finished.’
Twitter flooded with excitement after reports of ‘WhatsApp feature’
Another joked, “Now we can gossip properly without having to keep sharing screenshots.”
MailOnline has approached WhatsApp for further comment.
The speculation about the new tool came just days after the app launched a post editing feature.
These operations can be performed for up to 15 minutes after sending a message – after that they remain.
Changed WhatsApps will also show ‘edited’ next to them, meaning recipients will be aware of the fix despite not being able to see its history.
“For those times when you make a mistake, or just change your mind, you can now edit your sent messages,” WhatsApp said in a blog post.
“From correcting a simple spelling mistake to adding extra context to a message, we’re excited to give you more control over your chats.”