WhatsApp It's the world's most popular instant messaging app, and in recent years, it has evolved far beyond simple texting. Its voice and video calls allow us to stay connected easily and securely with friends, family, and even colleagues. While updates usually focus on messaging, it's now Video calls have received a feature that puts them on par with platforms like Zoom or Google Meet: the ability to share screens. while you talk.
This long-awaited feature transforms WhatsApp into a much more versatile tool. Now, in addition to face-to-face conversations, you can show presentations, help someone with their phone, or simply share an image or document from your device live.
Arrival of the screen sharing feature on WhatsApp
Until recently, screen sharing on WhatsApp was only possible in beta and through alternative methods. Meta has decided to officially implement the feature, taking inspiration from its competitors such as Skype, Teams, Meet, Zoom, Telegram and even Discord. This new feature is now available to the vast majority of users. Android, iOS and Windows, both in individual video calls and in group calls. In addition, support for the landscape mode, making viewing easier, especially on tablets and large screens.
Among the notable advantages of this feature is the possibility of sharing the entire screen or just the activity of a specific application, thus adapting to different needs and usage scenarios, from technical support to collaborative presentations or educational tasks.
Before testing the feature, it is recommended verify that you have the latest version of WhatsAppIf you don't have it, you just need to update the app from the Google Play Store or App Store. If the option doesn't appear yet, it's usually a matter of days before the rollout reaches all devices. Automatic updates are usually enabled by default, but you can update manually if you've changed your settings.
What is screen sharing on WhatsApp for?
The screen sharing feature opens up a range of possibilities:
- Help in real time: To provide technical support or teach how to use an app.
- Presentations and collaborative work: Display presentations, images, maps, or documents directly from your mobile phone or PC.
- Share media content: Display photos, videos, or even music for all participants to see or listen to.
- Education and demonstrations: Explains concepts in a visual way, such as solving school questions or distance learning.
This makes WhatsApp a practical alternative to other video calling apps or remote work platforms, facilitating communication in any environment and with the convenience of using the app everyone already has installed.
Step by Step: How to Share Screen on WhatsApp Video Calls
- Open WhatsApp and choose the conversation with the person or group you want to video call.
- Start the video call by tapping the camera icon at the top of the chat.
- In the bottom bar of the options you will see a new screen sharing icon (screen with an arrow or similar symbol). Click on it.
- The app will display a warning message stating that "everything displayed on the screen, including notifications, will be shared." Accept and grant the necessary permissions to record or project the screen.
- Depending on your device, an option will appear to “Start broadcast“Start Now,” or “Start Streaming.” Tap to continue.
- You are now sharing your screen! You can exit WhatsApp and navigate through any app or menu; your actions will be visible to other participants.
- To stop transmission, press the screen sharing icon again.
Important: When you share your screen, others will no longer see your camera and will only see what's happening on your device. However, you can still see the participants' images through a floating window.
Things to keep in mind when sharing screen
When using this feature, it is recommended to take into account certain considerations for optimal use:
- 'Do Not Disturb' Mode: Before sharing your screen, turn on the mode to prevent private or sensitive notifications from appearing to participants.
- Privacy: Remember that everything you see on your screen will be visible to others. Close any apps or chats that contain personal or sensitive information before starting.
- Connection quality: Screen sharing may require more bandwidth than a regular video call. Make sure you have a stable connection to avoid delays, dropouts, or low resolution.
- Audio and narration: Even if the camera is off, the audio remains. You can narrate what you're doing in real time or explain it to provide context.
Currently, some users have reported mild delays, strange noises, or echoes. WhatsApp is expected to continue improving this feature in future updates to improve the overall experience and smoothness on both Android and iPhone.
Screen sharing feature is available in Android and iOS, as well as the desktop version, increasing the possibilities of use even in professional and educational environments. WhatsApp continues to be updated, integrating new features such as panoramic modes (horizontal screen) and the future ability to share only certain apps instead of the entire screen.
Thanks to this functionality, WhatsApp is positioned as a key option for those who want to communicate and collaborate efficiently, without having to install third-party apps.
The screen sharing tool has changed the way we use WhatsApp on a daily basis. Whether it's to answer questions, show content, provide remote technical support, or make presentations, Everything is simpler and more accessible from the app that is already part of our daily lives.If you don't have this feature enabled yet, please check your app store for updates periodically.