Facebook on Friday unveiled a new video chat service with virtual 'rooms' where people can pop in to visit friends, aiming at users turning to the popular Zoom platform during the pandemic.
Facebook is upgrading its Messenger app to allow video conferences with as many as 50 participants, to help people connect during the pandemic. AFP/File/Martin BUREAU
“This is designed to be more serendipitous and spontaneous,” Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerberg said while briefing AFP on Rooms. Fun features include augmented-reality effects such as bunny ears and aliens, along with immersive fake backgrounds. Use of video calls and conferencing has rocketed as people work, learn, and socialize remotely while staying home to avoid the coronavirus.
Facebook plans to add ways to create “rooms” from its Instagram and WhatsApp messaging platforms as well as using its Portal smart screens.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Family spent 30 hours on the phone talking to dad before he died of Covid-19Abby Adair Reinhard shared the news about her father Don's death on Facebook.
Read more »
Digital video game spending hits record high under virus lockdownOverall revenue from digital video games for the month was up 11 percent year-on-year.
Read more »
FULL SPEECH: Lockdown to be eased from start of May, with 5 levels to guide activitiesPresident Cyril Ramaphosa says SA is aiming to return to a kind of normality while learning to live with the virus.
Read more »
'Trump probably thought he was talking to Morgan Freeman': Mzansi on Ramaphosa's ‘very productive’ chat with US presThe call took place on Thursday evening, just before Ramaphosa addressed the nation
Read more »
Join a chat on radio industry trends and the impact of Covid-19 on April 28Join Tim Zunckel in conversation with Kaya FM marketing head, African Bank MD and Tuks FM station manager on Tuesday, April 28 at 9.30am. They’ll be talking industry trends, the influence of social on radio, advertising budgets and more. Register today.
Read more »
Justice Edwin Cameron calls for release of prisoners due to Covid-19 fearsGovernments around the world have already taken significant action to decongest prisons through emergency releases.
Read more »