Facebook Messenger is bringing new augmented reality (AR) features to video calls.

The effects are already accessible in Messenger video calls as well as Messenger Rooms, the service’s Zoom-like video conferencing feature, and will be available shortly on Instagram, according to the company.

Group Effects are accessible to everyone on the video call, as Facebook aims to make AR effects a shared experience. Users can choose from over 70 group effects, like a game in which players compete to assemble a virtual burger and another in which a virtual orange cat photobombs the call.

To check it out, start a video call or create a room to see the new Group Effects, then tap the smiley face to access the effects tray and then click group effects. You will then be able to choose an AR experience that will be applied to everyone on the call.

https://messengernews.fb.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/nrp_group_ar_capture.mp4

According to a press release, “Group Effects provide a more engaging and interactive way to connect with your friends. They also support the creator community and give people more ways to express themselves.”

Along with the shared group AR experiences, Facebook also introduced dozens of new features for its chat services. When a specific phrase is used, new “word effects” will allow iOS and Android Messenger users to trigger an animation in a conversation.

Source: https://messengernews.fb.com/2021/10/21/your-video-calls-just-got-a-lot-more-exciting-with-new-interactive-ar-experiences/