WhatsApp has begun to introduce a new screen sharing feature to users testing the latest beta version of its Android app. Participants engaged in video calls will soon have the ability to share their screen with others in the call simply by tapping a designated button. This functionality is similar to features already available in applications such as Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Skype. Users operating the stable version of WhatsApp can expect to have access to the screen sharing feature in the near future.
The new feature, discovered by WhatsApp feature tracker WABetaInfo in version 2.23.11.19 of the beta app for Android, is represented by an icon depicting an arrow over a rectangular screen. Activating this feature prompts a standard Android recording or casting popup that seeks user consent, as shown in the screenshots shared by the tracker. Once permission is granted, users will see a notification indicating that screen sharing is in progress.
After users click the Start now button, accompanied by a warning regarding the risks associated with screen sharing, they can proceed to display their screen contents to another participant. This capability may prove beneficial in various scenarios, such as providing remote technical assistance to friends or family members. At any time, users can click the red Stop sharing button to end the session.
It is important to understand that, similar to other communication platforms offering screen sharing, the displayed content is transmitted over an encrypted connection. Consequently, any sensitive information, including passwords, payment details, images, notes, and other media visible on the screen, will also be accessible to other callers during the session.
Despite installing the latest beta version from the Play Store, Gadgets 360 was unable to activate the screen sharing feature. According to WABetaInfo, the rollout has reached a select group of users on the beta channel and is expected to expand to more devices in the near future. However, compatibility may be limited with older Android versions or during large group calls, according to the feature tracker.
