Facebook Messenger launched new ‘Group Effects’ for video calls and Messenger Rooms. The new augmented reality (AR) effects bring fun experiences to enjoy video calls on the app with friends and family. Previously, Facebook Messenger rolled out end-to-end encryption for audio and video calls to keep them safe and private.
Many people rely on video calls to bridge physical distance and interact with the world around them, especially now. With Group Effects, we aim to make those interactions even more exciting and memorable.
New Group Effects on Facebook Messenger allow users to enjoy AR effects and games on video calls
Facebook has found a new way to use AR effects copied from Snapchat. The new AR effects offer an entertaining experience to users by letting them indulge in multiple player games with friends and loved ones to make video calls. Users can access Group Effects simply by tapping on the smiley face icon on a video call or a created Room video interface to open the effects tray and select Group Effects to choose from 70 AR effects.
You’ll be able to choose from a library of over 70 Group Effects, ranging from a game where you compete to build the best burger to an effect with a cute orange cat that enters everyone’s screens.
The company also announced that by the end of this month, creators and developers will be given access to the new Spark AR Multipeer API to build their unique, customized Group Effects. And this feature will be available on Instagram soon.
Group Effects also enable creators to bring their creative ideas to the Messenger video calling experience. Until now, many AR effects have been a solo experience, like augmenting a photo or video for Stories or Reels. We’re excited to see how creators, like Ross Wakefield who designed the “Blow the Dandelion” effect, expand their creativity with Group Effects, while also helping you deepen connections with friends and family in real-time.
Facebook is also going through a rebranding by changing its name to reflect its focus on metaverse. Reportedly, the company will place all social media and other companies under a company with a new name.
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