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The novel coronavirus has made normal gatherings as unlikely as they are dangerous. However, we live in a collaborative society. People have work meetings to attend, social gatherings to unwind with and family they wish to see. Thankfully, modern technology makes all of this possible through video chatting.
Since the lockdown orders to halt the spread of the virus have been in place, video conferencing has become the norm. Work meetings in particular now occur through Zoom, Skype and even Discord. While the lockdowns might be in effect, life keeps moving. As much as some medical experts wish it could, the world simply can’t be paused.
Facebook, never a company to get behind on a trend, wants a piece of this market. The social media giant owns WhatsApp, a popular chatting service. They also operate Facebook Messenger. Between these two services, Facebook accounts for a sizable chunk of online chatting. As such, it’s no surprise that they want to get their slice of the teleconference pie.
While previously Facebook Messenger allowed for only eight people on a group video call, Facebook is upping that number to 50. Their new interface will allow for “Messenger Rooms,” which will allow some 50 people to chat at once. This is, ostensibly, great for small businesses that don’t want to force their employees to get programs like Zoom set up.
After all, pretty much everyone has Facebook already. This makes Messenger Rooms a quick and easy way to set up a big video call with the entire company. Facebook is always working to shore up their cloud services security. Their history with data breaches is long and sordid, acting as a black mark on the company’s reputation.
While most Americans are under lockdown orders, life has gone digital. Facebook is poised to capitalize on this, and Messenger Rooms is a great example of their initiative. The service will roll in Facebook Dating, allowing couples to go on virtual dates. Friend groups can all gather and hang out to catch up and socialize.
While people across the US wait for restrictions to be lifted, technology comes to rescue. Facebook is expanding the functionality of Facebook and Instagram Live, as well. Fans of celebs can keep up with their favorite personalities. Businesses can host online sales through these platforms. In essence, the country is pivoting to handle this unusual circumstance.
Things are strange, but America is rising to the challenge. After all, life goes on.
