WhatsApp users now have a growing toolkit to personalize their video calls, with options ranging from subtle background blurring to playful AI-powered effects. As of , and continuing to roll out to users, the popular messaging app offers a range of features designed to enhance the video call experience, bringing it closer in functionality to established video conferencing platforms like Zoom and FaceTime.
Effects, Filters, and Backgrounds: A Deep Dive
The core of the update revolves around three key areas: effects, filters, and backgrounds. Effects, as implemented by WhatsApp, go beyond simple visual tweaks. They leverage artificial intelligence to alter a caller’s appearance in real-time. Users can add virtual accessories like glasses, dog ears, and even simulate emotional states with effects like tears or sparkles. More dramatic effects reshape facial features, offering a playful take on video communication.
Filters provide a broader aesthetic change, applying a consistent look to the entire video feed. Options include classic black and white, dreamy color palettes, and more stylized looks like a fisheye lens or a vintage television effect. These filters allow users to quickly establish a mood or visual theme for their call.
Perhaps the most anticipated feature is the ability to change the background. This allows users to obscure their surroundings, replacing them with pre-selected images or a blurred version of their actual environment. Available backgrounds include virtual representations of common spaces like living rooms, offices, and cafes, as well as more whimsical options like beaches and cartoon-style imagery. This feature addresses privacy concerns and allows for a more polished presentation during calls.
Beyond the Basics: Touch Up and Low Light Modes
WhatsApp has also incorporated features designed to improve the caller’s appearance. “Touch Up Mode” utilizes AI to smooth skin, minimizing blemishes and imperfections. This feature aims to provide a more flattering image without requiring external editing software. Complementing This represents “Low Light Mode,” which automatically brightens the caller’s face in dimly lit environments, ensuring visibility even in challenging lighting conditions.
Notably, these effects aren’t limited to a single application. WhatsApp allows users to combine multiple features, layering effects, filters, and backgrounds for a truly customized experience. The functionality extends to both the front and rear cameras, meaning users can maintain their chosen effects even when switching between perspectives during a call.
How to Access the New Features
Accessing these features is straightforward. During a WhatsApp video call, users simply tap the “magic wand” button within the camera interface. If the button isn’t immediately visible, tapping the camera feed box slightly enlarges it, revealing the control. From there, users can navigate to the “EFFECTS,” “FILTERS,” or “BACKGROUNDS” sections and select their desired option. A small indicator dot appears under each category when an effect is active.
Samsung Integration and Availability
While WhatsApp is rolling out these features broadly, Samsung has provided specific instructions for Galaxy device users. According to Samsung’s support documentation, updated on , users can access video call effects through the “Advanced features” menu in their device settings. Specifically, users need to navigate to Settings > Advanced features > Video call effects and enable the feature.
However, it’s important to note that availability isn’t universal. WhatsApp acknowledges that effects, filters, and backgrounds are dependent on device compatibility and may not be available to all users immediately. The company recommends keeping the WhatsApp application updated to ensure access to the latest features as they become available. As of , some users are still reporting that the features are not yet available on their devices.
Context and Competition
WhatsApp’s move to enhance its video calling features places it in direct competition with other popular platforms. Zoom and FaceTime have long offered background blurring and virtual backgrounds, and WhatsApp’s implementation aims to close the gap in functionality. The addition of AI-powered effects, however, differentiates WhatsApp’s offering, providing a more playful and engaging experience.
The timing of this update is significant. Video communication has become increasingly prevalent, driven by remote work and social distancing. Platforms that offer robust and engaging video calling features are well-positioned to capture and retain users. WhatsApp, with its massive user base, is leveraging this trend to solidify its position as a leading communication platform.
While the features are currently focused on enhancing the visual experience, future updates could potentially incorporate features like noise cancellation or improved video quality, further enhancing WhatsApp’s video calling capabilities. For now, the current suite of effects, filters, and backgrounds provides users with a compelling set of tools to personalize and enhance their video calls.
