Facebook Messenger updates: Audio and video messages, integration with Siri, HD video, and much more

Facebook has launched a new update for Messenger that substantially changes how we use this communication platform. With the arrival of audio and video messages, integration with Siri, support for HD video calls and a touch of artificial intelligence, we are looking at a very interesting improvement of the app.

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Audio and video Messages

Now, Facebook Messenger allows us to leave audio or video messages when our calls are not answered. A feature that has been available on FaceTime for some time, and that opens the door to a new form of communication on the Facebook platform.

This type of messages are really useful in many situations, especially because they add a more personal touch to our interactions. Being able to leave a video message, for example, allows us to convey emotions in a much closer way than a simple written message.

Siri joins Messenger

Another major innovation in this update is the integration of Messenger with Siri. Now, with a simple “Hey Siri,” we can send messages or make calls from Messenger without needing to touch our iPhone.

Just as we could already do with WhatsApp, also owned by Facebook, or with Telegram, to name a couple of examples, now it’s enough to ask Siri to send a message or make a call on Messenger and the assistant will take care of everything. We can say “Hey Siri, call X on Messenger” and Siri will make the connection automatically.

HD, noise cancellation and AI backgrounds: video calls to another level

Meta has also significantly improved the quality of video calls in Messenger. From this update, HD calls are enabled by default when we are connected to a Wi-Fi network, and we can manually enable them for mobile connections from the settings, if our data plan allows it.

Along with HD, two other key features arrive: noise cancellation and voice isolation, which eliminate background sounds so that our voice is clear and crisp. This is especially useful in noisy environments, particularly in outdoor calls with wind.

Finally, Meta has announced that it will add AI-generated backgrounds to further personalize our video calls. We will find them by tapping the effects button and entering Backgrounds. From fantastic landscapes to settings suitable for professional calls, these options allow us to create the exact background we need to give a unique touch to our video calls.

Facebook Messenger Download

The new version of Messenger represents a significant leap in terms of functionality and convenience. Being able to leave audio and video messages, integrate the app with Siri, and enjoy HD video calls with customized options is a step forward in keeping up with communication trends.

Although Messenger still has a way to go to match some features of Apple’s ecosystem as well as third-party apps —or even its own WhatsApp—, this update shows that Facebook continues to strongly commit to improving its platform. Remembering that we can now edit messages, this is good news for making communication even more fun and easy, no matter where we are.