At the start of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, social media platforms like Facebook were forced to evolve and find new ways to keep us connected. Even now, as we head into reopening phases in the United States, it has become apparent that these changes, such as Facebook Messenger Rooms and the “Live With” feature, will have a lasting impact on the way we socialize and conduct business.
Video calling platforms have never been more popular, and they aren’t going away anytime soon. According to a recent Business Wire report, online meetings are the “ultimate solution to connect with remote workers, customers, and employees,” while remaining at a safe distance. Ease of use and convenient features (like Facebook’s AI-powered 360 degree backgrounds and mood lighting and increased privacy controls) have made the shift to a telecommuting model virtually seamless, and may just be the new norm as we head into the new decade.
With that being said, you won’t always have the ideal space to video chat with friends and co-workers or host a 50-person webinar. To counter issues like visual distractions and poor lighting, Facebook has provided tools like the aforementioned AI-powered backgrounds that enable 360-degree movement and virtual filters. These special effects adjust how others see you while using Messenger Rooms, the popular social media platform’s new video calling feature. Read on to learn more.
AI-Powered Backgrounds
On April 24, 2020, Facebook introduced the addition of “immersive 360-degree backgrounds that transport you to beautiful and iconic spaces, from the beach to a luxe apartment on the water.” Whether it’s a Black Hole, a Ball Pit, or a tranquil forest, these backgrounds keep others from seeing into your “in real life” space.
There’s just one catch. While Messenger Rooms can be accessed from any device, users can only use Facebook’s AI-powered 360-degree backgrounds if they’re accessing the social media platform from a phone or tablet. It cannot be used on a computer.
Adding a background to your Messenger Room is easy. When you enter the room, tap the screen to bring up the user options. You’ll see buttons to hang up the call, mute your mic, flip your camera, etc. Among these icons on the screen will be a smiley face. By clicking on it, you’ll bring up Facebook’s Messenger Room effects, and from there you’ll need to hit the “Backgrounds” tab.
Virtual Filters and Mood Lighting
Perhaps your space isn’t bright enough or the colors aren’t quite right during your Messenger Room call. Facebook has added filters to the available options as well!
“There are 14 new camera filters that offer ambient lighting to brighten your space and your face,” noted Facebook. So now, your dark room can be better lit, and your friends or event attendees can see your smiling face.
Again, this feature can only be used from a mobile device or tablet. Similar to how you access backgrounds, the third tab in the social media platform’s effects is “Lighting.” Click there to scroll through the camera filters and find your best look.
Privacy
You can’t always control who’s on the call, but you can control what they see. When using the social media platform with individuals you don’t know, backgrounds add an extra layer of protection, so no one can see the family pictures on the wall of your living room, your neighborhood from a front porch, or the valuables we don’t always think about in our homes.
Whenever you’re using a video calling platform, it’s important to keep your meetings secure. Facebook Messenger Rooms enable hosts to lock the room, remove guests, and quickly end a meeting in order to help avoid security issues. Before hosting a meeting or event on Messenger Rooms, ensure that you know how to use the security features.
You’ve probably realized by now that Social Media is no longer an option. In fact, it is a vital and highly successful tool for building a business. Aliya Hammond Consulting is an online Digital Marketing, Training, and Consulting Company headquartered in the greater Philadelphia area. We specialize in Social Media Management and Marketing, Social Media Training, Blog Writing, and Graphic Design Services for small and large businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profit organizations. If you are looking to improve or increase your online presence, you can rest assured you are in good hands with us. Contact Aliya Hammond Consulting today to find out how we can help your business grow!
