How to Use WhatsApp’s Screen Sharing: A Step-by-Step Guide

In today’s digital age, communication is key, and WhatsApp has been at the forefront of connecting people worldwide. While the platform has long been favored for its messaging and calling capabilities, it’s now stepping up its game with an exciting new feature: screen sharing. Whether you’re collaborating on a project, troubleshooting tech issues for a friend, or simply sharing a funny meme, WhatsApp’s screen-sharing feature is a game-changer.

This photo depicts an Android phone with its screen featuring the WhatsApp chat window of the WhatsApp Official Account. The content of the chat showing a video promoting the WhatsApp's Screen Sharing feature.

Why Screen Sharing Matters

Screen sharing isn’t just a novelty – it’s a powerful tool for enhancing communication and collaboration. Here’s why you should be excited about WhatsApp’s latest addition:

1. Real-Time Collaboration: With screen sharing, you can instantly show your screen to others, allowing for seamless collaboration on documents, presentations, or any other digital content.

2. Tech Support Made Easy: Helping a friend or family member troubleshoot a tech issue? With screen sharing, you can see exactly what they’re seeing, making it easier to diagnose and resolve problems remotely.

3. Enhanced Communication: Sometimes, words aren’t enough to convey your message. With screen sharing, you can visually demonstrate concepts, share visuals, or walk someone through a process with ease.

Read also: 12 Ways to Fix WhatsApp Not Receiving Messages

How to Use WhatsApp’s Screen-Sharing Feature on Android

Now that you understand the benefits, let’s dive into how you can start using WhatsApp’s screen-sharing feature on an Android phone. Follow these simple steps:

1. Ensure You Have the Latest Version: Before you can use screen sharing on your Android phone, make sure you’re using the latest version of WhatsApp. You can update the app through Google Play Store.

2. Start a Video Call: Open WhatsApp and tap on the “Video Recorder” icon to initiate a video call with the person you want to share your screen with. Wait for them to answer the call.

Screenshot from an Android device showing a WhatsApp chat window, with the 'Video Recorder' icon highlighted to indicate the initiation of a video call with the contact.

3. Activate Screen Sharing: After the other user answers the call, look for the “Screen-Sharing” icon, usually located near the call controls. Tap on it to start sharing your screen.

Screenshot from an Android device displaying a WhatsApp video call window, with the 'Screen Sharing' icon highlighted to indicate the option to enable screen sharing with the contact.

4. Grant Permissions: Provide WhatsApp with the necessary access permissions if this is the first time you are using the Screen Sharing feature.

This image shows the step-by-step process of granting WhatsApp's Screen Sharing feature the necessary permissions on an Android phone.

5. Begin Sharing: You’ll now be able to see your screen in real-time, and the person on the other end of the call will be able to see it as well.

This is the screenshot of a WhatsApp video call window on an Android phone, with the screen sharing feature activated.

6. End Screen Sharing: When you’re done, simply tap on the “Stop Sharing” button to end the screen sharing session. You can then continue your call as usual.

WhatsApp Tip: Unable to video call someone? You might be blocked! Learn how to check if a contact has blocked you on WhatsApp.

How to Use WhatsApp’s Screen-Sharing Feature on an iPhone

If you’re using an iPhone, here’s how to activate WhatsApp’s screen-sharing feature:

1. Ensure You Have the Latest Version: Before you can use screen sharing on your iPhone, make sure you’re using the latest version of WhatsApp. You can update the app through Apple App Store.

2. Start a Video Call: Open WhatsApp and tap on the “Video Recorder” icon to initiate a video call with the person you want to share your screen with. Wait for them to answer the call.

Screenshot from an iPhone showing a WhatsApp chat window, with the 'Video Recorder' icon highlighted to indicate the initiation of a video call with the contact.

3. Activate Screen Sharing: After the other user answers the call, look for the “Screen-Sharing” icon, usually located near the call controls. Tap on it to start sharing your screen.

Screenshot from an iPhone displaying a WhatsApp video call window, with the 'Screen Sharing' icon highlighted to indicate the option to enable screen sharing with the contact.

4. Start Broadcast: When the “Screen Broadcast” dialog box appears, tap “Start Broadcast” to begin.

This image displays a screenshot of a WhatsApp video call on an iPhone, where the 'Screen Broadcast' dialog box is visible and the 'Start Broadcast' option is highlighted.

5. Begin Sharing: You’ll now be able to see your screen in real-time, and the person on the other end of the call will be able to see it as well.

This is the screenshot of a WhatsApp video call window on an iPhone, with the screen sharing feature activated.

6. End Screen Sharing: When you’re done, simply tap on the “Stop Sharing” button to end the screen sharing session. You can then continue your call as usual.

Pro Tip: Discover the meanings of numerous WhatsApp symbols and icons to navigate the app with ease.

How to Use WhatsApp’s Screen-Sharing Feature on Your Windows PC

As of February 2024, WhatsApp Web does not support the video call feature. To use WhatsApp’s screen sharing on your computer, you need to download the WhatsApp App from the Microsoft Store.

After installing WhatsApp, follow these steps to use the screen sharing feature on your Windows PC:

1. Launch the WhatsApp for Desktop app on your PC or laptop.

This photo shows a screenshot of the WhatsApp 'Welcome' page on a Windows PC.

2. Scan the QR Code displayed on your desktop screen using your phone to establish a connection between your phone and desktop.

This image shows the screenshot of WhatsApp's 'To Set Up WhatsApp on Your Computer' page on a Windows PC.

3. Start a chat with your friend and initiate a video call by clicking the “Video Recorder” icon.

This is a screenshot of a WhatsApp Chat window on a Windows PC. The 'Video Recorder' icon is highlighted.

4. After your friend answers the call, click on the “Screen Sharing” icon to begin sharing your desktop content with your friend.

This is a screenshot of a WhatsApp video call on a Windows PC, with the 'Screen Sharing' icon highlighted.

5. Choose whether to share a specific window or your entire display.

This image shows a screenshot from WhatsApp video call on a Windows PC. It also features the 'Share your window' and 'Share your display' options which both are highlighted indicating to select either one.

6. Opt for the “Share Your Display” option and hit the “OK” button to commence screen sharing.

This image shows a screenshot from WhatsApp video call on a Windows PC. It also features the 'Share your display' option has been chosen and the next step is to click the 'OK' button at the bottom to proceed with screen sharing.

7. To conclude screen sharing, simply click on the “Stop Sharing” button.

This is a screenshot of a WhatsApp video call on a Windows PC, with screen sharing activated. The 'Stop Sharing' button is highlighted, indicating that you should click it if you want to end screen sharing.

WhatsApp Tip: Using WhatsApp on your computer is a convenient way to stay connected, whether you’re working or relaxing at home. Discover how to use WhatsApp on a computer for seamless connectivity.

Tips for Effective Screen Sharing

To make the most of WhatsApp’s screen-sharing feature, keep these tips in mind:

  • Prepare in Advance: Before starting a screen-sharing session, ensure that your screen is free of any sensitive or irrelevant information.
  • Communicate Clearly: Clearly explain what you’re sharing and why, especially if you’re collaborating on a project or providing tech support.
  • Practice Privacy: Be mindful of privacy concerns when sharing your screen, and only share what’s necessary for the conversation.

Read also: How to Hide Your WhatsApp Profile Picture from Specific Contacts

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

FAQ: Why isn’t my screen share working on WhatsApp?

Answer: Check if WhatsApp has the necessary permissions and your internet connection is stable. Also, ensure you’re using a supported device and have updated to the latest version of WhatsApp.

FAQ: Can I use WhatsApp’s screen sharing feature to share videos during a call?

Answer: Yes, you can use WhatsApp’s screen sharing feature to share videos during a call. Simply start screen sharing and play the video on your device, and the other person will be able to see it in real-time.

FAQ: Can I control who can see my screen during a WhatsApp call?

Answer: Yes, you have control over who can see your screen during a WhatsApp call. You can choose to share your entire screen or select specific windows or applications to share with the other person.

FAQ: Does screen sharing on WhatsApp affect call quality or performance?

Answer: Screen sharing on WhatsApp may slightly affect call quality or performance, especially if you’re sharing high-resolution content or have a slow internet connection. However, in most cases, the impact is minimal and shouldn’t significantly degrade your call experience.

Read also: How to Find Old WhatsApp Chat Messages by Date

Conclusion

WhatsApp’s screen-sharing feature opens up a world of possibilities for communication and collaboration. Whether you’re working on a group project, assisting a friend, or simply catching up with loved ones, screen sharing adds a new dimension to your conversations. By following the steps outlined in this guide and keeping our tips in mind, you’ll be able to make the most of this exciting feature and unlock new levels of efficiency in your digital interactions.

So what are you waiting for? Update your WhatsApp, start a video call, and experience the power of screen sharing for yourself!

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