The Meta-owned platform has been introducing new features that transform the communication experience for more than 2 billion people who use the application. This novelty in WhatsApp emulates the best of specialized platforms such as Zoom y Google Meet, facilitating the management of interactions and order in virtual meetings.
An innovation inspired by leading platforms
Table of Contents
This new tool allows users to raise their hand and react with emojis on the WhatsApp video calls. Until now, WhatsApp was mainly perceived as an instant messaging app. However, the constant incorporation of functions like these demonstrates the effort to position it as a comprehensive digital interaction service. With this function, the group calls They are no longer simple voice or video connections, but organized and participatory spaces such as Microsoft Teams or Google Meet.
How do the new options work?
Raising your hand allows, among other things, to ask for a turn to speak during the video call without interrupting those who are speaking, ideal for debates and group meetings. This action helps maintain fluidity and order, something essential in professional environments or in virtual classes. Simply tap the three dots icon on the video call screen and select “Raise a hand”; a symbol will appear for the other participants, indicating who wants to intervene. Additionally, it can also be used in quick voting, where each vote can be counted by viewing the number of hands raised what’s in the video call.
On the other hand, reactions with emojis allow you to express opinions, emotions or approval quickly and visually, without having to activate the microphone. By tapping the same three-dot menu, you can choose from a variety of emoticons to share a reaction instantly. The interface is intuitive and similar to the experience of reacting to messages in the app’s chats.
Practical applications and advantages
- These functions are especially useful in meetings with numerous participants, where control of interventions can be complicated.
- Raising your hand helps prevent multiple users from speaking at the same time, moderating the pace of the conversation and facilitating management by the person in charge of directing the call.
- The reactions, for their part, give dynamism, allowing the attendees show emotions or respond to comments without interrupting, making communication more human and direct.
- It is designed for both work and student contexts and family, adapting to different daily needs.
Similarities with Zoom and Google Meet
The two functions come after years of success in Zoom y Google Meetwhere raising your hand and reacting in real time are key tools for organizing remote debates, classes and seminars, especially after the pandemic. WhatsApp, by adopting these systems, matches its proposal to that of these platforms. This allows users who They prefer the app for its ease and data protection access tools previously reserved for business or educational services.
Security and privacy
WhatsApp ensures that all group calls where these functions are enabled maintain end-to-end encryption, guaranteeing the privacy and security of conversations. The data and participations are only accessible to the members present, which favors the use in professional environments sensitive or in family conversations.
Requirements and availability
The functions are activated in the updated app, both on Android and iOS. They are available in the most recent version after a direct notification sent by WhatsApp to users. It is only required Follow these steps to take advantage of the new tools:
- Update the application to the latest version.
- Start or join a group video call.
- Tap the three dots icon to access reaction options or raise your hand.
- Choose the emoji to react or the hand symbol to ask for a turn and thus intervene in an orderly manner.
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