Meta Platforms has rolled out an array of enhancements to Messenger, aimed at enriching the user experience for audio and video calls. These updates, driven by artificial intelligence (AI), include customizable backgrounds for video calls, enhancing expressiveness during conversations. Users can also look forward to high-definition video calls, along with features such as background noise suppression, voice isolation, and voicemail capabilities. This latest update builds on the recent rollout of AI-generated themes introduced last September.
New Features on Messenger
In a recent blog post, Meta outlined the new functionalities debuting on Messenger. The introduction of HD video calls allows for superior call quality, activated by default when users connect over Wi-Fi. This option can be adjusted for those making calls via cellular data. Additionally, the incorporation of voice isolation and background noise cancellation aims to enhance audio clarity by minimizing surrounding sounds, with both features accessible through the app’s call settings.
A standout feature is the AI-powered backgrounds, which utilize Meta AI — the company’s dedicated AI assistant — to create customized backgrounds based on user-supplied text descriptions. This functionality can be accessed during video calls by tapping the Backgrounds icon.
Messenger will also introduce voicemail-like capabilities, allowing users to leave audio or video messages when a call goes unanswered. This feature is activated via the Record message option that appears once the call is marked as missed.
For iPhone users, Meta plans to enable hands-free calling soon. Users will have the capability to prompt Siri, Apple’s voice assistant, to initiate calls. They will also be able to dictate messages to send through Siri.
This announcement follows the recent launch of the Memories feature for Messenger, introduced a month earlier. This feature provides users with the opportunity to revisit and share photos from their past conversations with their community.
