Introduction
Facebook Messenger rooms are a great option for hosting a video chat. There’s no time limit on how long a room can be kept open, and you can host up to 50 people in a room at a time. Because Facebook also owns Instagram, they rolled out the ability to create a Facebook Messenger room directly from Instagram. The only caveat is that you have to have the Facebook Messenger app installed on your device to use it. Examples of all instructions in the steps can be seen in the YouTube video below.
Steps to Create a Facebook Messenger Room on Instagram
- Launch the Instagram app on your iPhone, iPad or Android device. You’ll land on your Instagram home screen.
- Tap the “Direct Message” icon at the top of the screen. The Direct Message screen is displayed.
- Tap the “Video” icon at the top of the screen. You’ll land on the New Video Chat screen.
- Tap “Create a Room.” The Create Messenger Room window is displayed. Tap “Create Room” again. Tap to select anyone in your Instagram friend list you want to invite to your room and then tap “Send” to send an invite to those individuals to join your room. Alternatively, you can tap “Skip” without inviting anyone from your Instagram friends list to your room. A Messenger Room Created window is displayed, where you’ll get a link to your Messenger room that can be given to anyone you want to join your room.
- Tap “Join Room.” A Go To Messenger window is shown asking if you want to leave Instagram and go to Messenger. Tap “Ok.” You’ll be routed to the Messenger app where your Messenger room will load. From here, you can tap “Share Link” to invite other people to your Messenger room for a video chat.
5 Reasons to Create a Facebook Messenger Room on Instagram
1. Effortless Group Video Calls
One major draw of using Facebook Messenger Rooms on Instagram is the ease of hosting group video calls. With just a few taps, you can connect with up to 50 people simultaneously. This feature is incredibly user-friendly, especially for those who aren’t tech-savvy. There’s no need to download additional apps. Users can join via a shared link, whether or not they have an Instagram account. This makes it perfect for family gatherings, virtual hangouts, or team meetings. The seamless integration with Instagram also allows you to tap into your existing network. This means spontaneous calls with friends are just a few clicks away.
2. Enhanced Privacy Controls
Privacy is a paramount concern today, and Facebook Messenger Rooms addresses this head-on. When you create a room, you control who joins. You can keep it as open or as exclusive as you like. Invitations can be sent directly or through a shareable link. You have the authority to lock the room once all participants have joined, preventing any unwanted guests. The ability to remove participants at any time also adds a layer of security. For those concerned about their digital footprint, these features provide a significant amount of control over their online interactions.
3. Customizable Features
The appeal of Messenger Rooms also lies in its customization options. As the host, you can set the scene with various virtual backgrounds, choosing from serene beaches to outer space themes. This adds a fun and personalized touch to conversations. You can also use filters and AR effects to keep the atmosphere light and engaging. These features are particularly popular among younger users who enjoy visually dynamic experiences. Customization extends to notifications and room settings, ensuring each call fits the occasion.
4. Integration with Other Apps
Messenger Rooms isn’t just limited to Instagram; it’s part of the larger Facebook ecosystem. This integration allows users to create and manage rooms from Instagram, Facebook, or Messenger. This cross-platform functionality enhances accessibility. You can reach people across different social media with ease. Planning a virtual event or a collaborative project becomes straightforward, as participants can join from the platform they feel most comfortable with. This interconnectedness makes it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain broad social or professional networks.
5. No Time Limits on Calls
Unlike many other video calling platforms, Facebook Messenger Rooms does not impose time limits on calls. This feature is invaluable for those who need extended periods to discuss, collaborate, or simply socialize. You can keep the conversation going for as long as you like. This is especially useful for remote work meetings, online workshops, or long-distance family calls where conversations might need more time to unfold naturally. The absence of a countdown clock also relieves the pressure to wrap up quickly, fostering more meaningful and relaxed interactions.
