Messenger

Image supplied

Facebook Messenger adds screen sharing to mobile devices

Screen sharing is now available globally on the latest versions of Messenger’s Android and iOS apps, desktop apps and web version.

Messenger

Image supplied

Facebook has enabled its screen sharing feature for Messenger on mobile devices, allowing you to share your phone or tablet screen when calling a friend one on one, in a group chat, or while taking part in even larger conversations via Messenger Rooms.

You can share your screen or pictures from your camera roll or Instagram feed with up to eight people in group chats or up to 16 people in Messenger Rooms.

Screen sharing is available to everyone

Facebook said: “Screen sharing allows you to scroll through your photos, surf social media or shop together online with friends more easily than before.”

The company will soon add the ability for Room creators to determine whether to limit the ability to screen share to just themselves, or make it available to all participants on the call.

Screen sharing is now available globally on the latest versions of Messenger’s Android and iOS apps, desktop apps and web version. Facebook said it is working on expanding the feature for up to 50 people in Rooms.

How to use Facebook Messenger screen sharing on your phone

• Open the Messenger app on your iPhone or Android.
• Start a video call by selecting one or more contacts and tapping the camera icon.
• Once on the call swipe up on the toolbar at the bottom where you find the icons for hanging up or turning your mic off.
• From the expanded menu, tap share your screen.

People on the video chat will now be able to see a live view of whatever is on your phone screen. The video chat interface will move to the upper right hand corner of your phone, so you will still be able to see your friends on camera while you show them what is on your phone.

Screen sharing is a welcome feature

Screen sharing is definitely a welcome feature. Video calls allow you to connect with friends, family, and colleagues. Screen sharing is a useful tool. You can catch up with loved ones by going through photos in your camera roll — from a recent trip or talk over details about a work project with a colleague.

Screen sharing is already available on a number of video chat services including Skype and Zoom. Facebook Messenger works particularly well on mobile devices and having the option on iOS and Android is definitely a big improvement.

Also read: Facebook launched Messenger Kids to keep children safe online