Facebook launches group video chat allowing 50 people at once

YUMA, ARZ, (KYMA, KECY) - Facebook's new video chat feature is called Messenger Rooms, expected to rival the likes of Zoom and Skype.

As more people turn to virtual forms of getting-together due the coronavirus lockdowns and quarantines, this is the perfect time for Facebook to launch this feature.

Users will son be able to host a video chat room with up to 50 people at once with no time limit. A Facebook account is not required.

Messenger Rooms can be able to be accessed through Facebook or the Messenger app.

Facebook says soon they will add ways to create rooms from Instagram Direct, WhatsApp and Portal.

The company says concerns will be address in Rooms, saying people will have the ability to block or report people, as well as the option to “lock” a room to prevent uninvited guests from dropping-in unnanounced.

However some have criticized it won't be as private as one may think

Messenger Rooms uses the same data collection policies as Facebook, which includes sharing your information with third parties, reports Forbes.

Still, while humanity has found other means of communication amid the pandemic, Facebook's existing product lineup has not met the growing demand which Zoom and similar video chats have seen.

It's not going to be perfect, but Messenger Rooms is Facebook's direct response.

Rooms is available in Messenger today in nearly all countries where Facebook is available, Facebook says.

Availability within the Facebook app will continue to roll out globally within coming weeks.