Tech Desk 
Jun 14, 2024
Meta-owned messaging app WhatsApp has upgraded its video calling experience by introducing screen sharing with audio support and a new speaker highlight feature.
Additionally, WhatsApp is set to increase the limit for video call participants to up to 32 people, aligning with the screen-sharing support previously unveiled.
These enhancements bring WhatsApp's video calling capabilities in line with Apple’s FaceTime, which also allows up to 32 participants on a call. In comparison, Google Meet and Zoom enable up to 100 participants on their basic tier. The new speaker highlight feature automatically spotlights the person speaking, making them prominent on the screen during a video call.
Read more: WhatsApp to allow file sharing with nearby users
Furthermore, Meta has introduced the Meta Low Bitrate (MLow) codec on WhatsApp to enhance call reliability, even with poor network connectivity or older devices.
This codec improves upon the open-source Opus codec, offering twice the audio quality while maintaining 10% lower complexity. Previously implemented in Instagram and Messenger calls, MLow will soon be available on WhatsApp, further enhancing the calling experience across Meta platforms.
