Even though the wave of video calling excitement may have peaked during the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains a vital way to stay connected. In a surprising move, WhatsApp has decided to enhance its video calling feature by introducing filters and backgrounds.
WhatsApp Introduces Filters and Backgrounds for Video Calls
According to a recent post on the WhatsApp Blog, the app is rolling out a selection of filters and background options for video calls. Users will now be able to alter their appearance on camera and change their backdrop away from their actual surroundings.
Initially, users will have access to 10 different filters and 10 unique backgrounds. The filters include: Warm, Cool, Black & White, Light Leak, Dreamy, Prism Light, Fisheye, Vintage TV, Frosted Glass, and Duo Tone. As for the backgrounds, options will include: Living Room, Office, Café, Pebbles, Foodie, Smoosh, Beach, Sunset, Celebration, and Forest.
Alongside the filters and backgrounds, WhatsApp is also introducing Touch Up and Low Light features. These options aim to enhance your surroundings, allowing you to adjust what others see during the call. The goal is to help you feel more at ease and confident while on camera.
These new features will start rolling out to all WhatsApp users in the coming weeks. If you’re eager to try them out, make sure to keep your app updated. Once available, you can find the new effect icons in the upper right corner of your screen during calls.
Are These Features Really Necessary?
WhatsApp has touted these filters and backgrounds as a way to make conversations “fun and expressive.” The company claims they provide “a more personal touch” and foster “a playful atmosphere.” However, I’m not entirely convinced this perspective is accurate.
Maybe it’s just my personal preference, but I find the use of filters and backgrounds in video calls somewhat distracting. We all know you’re not calling from a beach if your real background is a bland office, and that’s okay. Let’s just keep it real.
Moreover, WhatsApp does seem a bit late to jump on this trend. Many video calling platforms, like Zoom and Google Meet, have allowed users to change their background or apply filters for years now, especially during the peak of the pandemic. In a rather surprising turn of events, WhatsApp has only decided to implement these features in 2024.
