Facebook Takes On Zoom With 'Messenger Rooms'

Facebook is challenging Zoom with the introduction of "Messenger Rooms," a group messaging service that allows Facebook users to host group calls of up to 50 people that anyone can join. Engadget reports: Instead of inviting people individually, Facebook users can post links in their News Feed or in Groups or event pages. And unlike Messenger's existing video chat features, participants don't need to have the Messenger app or even a Facebook account to join a room. When a room is created, anyone can join via their browser, though hosts can opt to "lock" rooms to new guests to prevent party crashers.

There are other Zoom-like features, too. Messenger Rooms will have "immersive 360-degree backgrounds that transport you to beautiful and iconic spaces, from the beach to a luxe apartment on the water," along with "14 new camera filters that offer ambient lighting to brighten your space and your face." Facebook also notes that there are no time limits for video chat sessions, which can be scheduled in advance. Messenger Rooms is starting to roll out now, and will be live in the U.S. "in the coming weeks." Facebook also announced that it's integrating Messenger's video calling into Facebook Dating, so users can participate in "virtual dates" while they can't plan IRL get-togethers. The update will be available "in the coming months."

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