WhatsApp, the leading messaging app, introduced several groundbreaking features in 2023, including screen sharing during video calls. This enhancement, available on Android, iPhone, and Windows desktop apps, enables users to share their screens, similar to other popular video call applications like Zoom and Microsoft Teams. However, it is important to note that this feature is not available for the web version of WhatsApp.
Ensuring privacy and security, WhatsApp’s screen sharing feature is protected with end-to-end encryption. This means that any content shared during these calls remains exclusive to the participants and cannot be accessed by anyone outside the call, not even WhatsApp itself. This commitment to privacy makes it a reliable tool for various purposes, from office presentations and collaborations to remote teaching.
To utilize this feature on your mobile phone, follow these simple steps:
- Initiate a video call with a contact.
- Tap on the screen-sharing icon at the bottom of the display.
- A confirmation window will appear; confirm your intention to share your screen.
- After a brief countdown, your screen will become visible to the call participants.
- To stop sharing, return to the app and tap on the “Stop Sharing” icon.
For desktop users, the process is slightly different. Ensure you are using the WhatsApp desktop app, as this feature is not supported on the web version. Here’s how to share your screen on the desktop:
- Start a video call using the desktop app.
- Click on the share icon within the call window.
- A pop-up window will ask if you want to share your entire screen or a specific application window.
- Select your preference and begin sharing.
- To stop sharing, return to the application and click on the screen-sharing icon again.
In addition to screen sharing, WhatsApp’s 2023 updates brought several other notable features, including multiple account support, multi-device support, pinned messages, and the ability to reply from the lock screen. These enhancements aim to provide users with a more versatile and efficient communication experience.
Understanding how to leverage these features can significantly enhance productivity and convenience in both personal and professional settings. Whether you are conducting a virtual meeting, collaborating on a project, or teaching a remote class, WhatsApp’s screen-sharing capability offers a seamless and secure way to share your screen with others.