Facebook Messenger Rooms let you create 50-person video calls – and pals from WhatsApp and Instagram can join too
FACEBOOK is launching Messenger Rooms – massive video calls that can host up to 50 people.
Importantly, you can invite pals from WhatsApp and Instagram too.
And even people without a Facebook account can join your Messenger Room.
It’s a clear bid to rival Zoom, Microsoft’s Skype and Apple’s FaceTime – all of which have seen a popularity surge in recent weeks.
You can create the rooms directly inside Messenger or Facebook, and they’re completely free to host.
“Today, we are rolling out Messenger Rooms, which are joinable group video calls that make it easy to spend quality time with friends, loved ones and people who share your interests,” said Facebook’s Stan Chudnovsky.
“Host celebrations, organise a book club or just hang out on the couch with friends.”
Up to 50 people can be in a Messenger Room at once.
And unlike some video calling services, there’s no time limit for a Messenger Room.
You can start and share rooms on Facebook through the News Feed, as well as Groups and Events.
Facebook is also adding ways to create rooms through Instagram Direct, WhatsApp and the Portal smart screens too.
If a Facebook friend or group creates a room that is open to you, you’ll see it on Facebook.
When you’re invited to a room, you can join from your phone or computer.
You don’t need to download any apps either – you can just hop right in.
Facebook says it doesn’t “view or listen” to your calls.
And the person who creates the room controls who can join, who sees the room, and if the room is locked or unlocked to new guests.
The room creator needs to be present for a call to begin – and they can kick guests at any time.
If you’ve got the Messenger app, you can use AR effects like bunny ears, as well as different backgrounds and “mood lighting”.
Facebook users can start using Messenger Rooms this week.
However, the new feature might not appear immediately as Facebook says it’s being “rolled out”.
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In other news, Facebook recently added a new ‘Care’ reaction.
Facebook has launched a dedicated Gaming app for streaming and playing with pals.
And the social network has also debuted a new chat app for couples called Tuned.
Will you be using Messenger Rooms? Let us know in the comments!
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