WhatsApp is bringing its screen sharing feature to the desktop app. The latest version of WhatsApp beta for Windows gives users access to the new feature, which is still in the testing stage. The Meta-owned platform may roll it out publicly a few weeks later.
WhatsApp first added a screen sharing feature to its Android app (beta) a couple of weeks back. It lets users share their screen with the other party during video calls. The app gets a dedicated button for the feature in the bottom bar of the call screen. You’re always in control over sharing your screen, so you can stop it anytime you want. You don’t need permission from the other person on the call.
The same feature is now available in the desktop version of WhatsApp. According to WABetaInfo, which first reported this update, the PC app lets you choose to share a specific window or the entire content of your screen. Whatever you select, everyone in the video call will see it. That’s irrespective of whether they have joined via mobile or PC. Like on mobile, you have full control over sharing your screen.
Screen sharing is currently available to users with version 2.2322.1.0 of WhatsApp beta for Windows (beta version 2.23.11.19 or newer of the Android app). A few Windows users have reportedly confirmed receiving the feature in the stable version as well. However, it appears to be a pre-mature release. As of this writing, a wider rollout is only available in the beta channel.
WhatsApp expands its business-focused features with screen sharing
Screen sharing features are usually found in business communication services like Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. They facilitate more inclusive remote collaboration. WhatsApp adding a similar feature suggests the company is going this route too. It has already expanded the participant limit in group video calls to 32 people and added proper support for multiple devices. It’s also working on the ability to use multiple accounts on the same app.
Perhaps WhatsApp bringing screen sharing to its desktop app so quickly is an indication of its plans to offer more useful tools to businesses. As said before, this feature is currently in the beta stage. Android users can enroll in the beta program here, and then proceed to download the latest beta version of the app from the Google Play Store. Windows users can grab the new beta update for WhatsApp from the Microsoft Store here.
