Facebook Takes On Zoom With 'Messenger Rooms' (engadget.com) 18
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."
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."
I do not trust messenger. (Score:1)
Re:I do not trust messenger. (Score:4, Insightful)
I suppose BizX were the ones who put all the lax security features in Zoom too.
Re: I do not trust messenger. (Score:1)
Re: (Score:2)
Yet you still come here and comment and feed the BizX slam campaign against Zoom.
We can only presume your deep expertise on slam campaigns, AnalPoundr.
Re: I do not trust messenger. (Score:2)
I'm with you there. That is where my brain went straight away as well.
Though at least the article didnt try to elude that this was in response to privacy practices. I imagine this Facebook solution will be much worse.
The features however sound like they will be very compelling for non business types, i think zoom is gaining popularity out of convemience. So many people use facebook a anyways, its an obvious alternative.
Hmmm (Score:2)
"participants don't need to have the Messenger app or even a Facebook account to join a room"
So, they're using the shadow profiles for identification or what?
Re: (Score:2)
More like they're using the video chats to fill out the shadow profiles.
Re: Hmmm (Score:2)
Re: Hmmm (Score:2)
They already have one on you, even if your not a user
Re: (Score:2)
I have to wonder how much of it is actually accurate. I did spent a bit of time to pad what's known about me with piles of bullshit, I really wish I could find out how much of it sticks.
Facebook? (Score:2)
Fuck Facebook.
Re: (Score:2)
Ewwww, I know the average geek is desperate to get laid but really... have some standards!
Trade one ill for another? (Score:5, Insightful)
Why should I trade a small company with fixable security problems for a huge company who's business model is to strip-mine users' privacy?
With monopoly power comes... more monopoly power (Score:1)
Facebook.... (Score:1)
Eliminate the uncertainty! (Score:2)
Stop using an application that might threaten the confidentiality of your conversation!
No more wondering whether someone will spy on you, no longer do you have to lie awake. Why lie awake night after night, worrying that someone might have recorded you and sold you to the highest bidder. Find comfort by knowing for sure!
Itâ(TM)s relative (Score:1)