Meta Tests New BeReal-Inspired Feature on Messenger: Roll Call

February 23, 2023 By Jozeph P

(Image Credit Google)

Meta is testing a new feature for Messenger called "Roll Call," which invites users to share photos or videos of what they're up to at the moment in response to a prompt. The feature is similar to the "BeReal" app that encourages users to take photos and videos of themselves at random times. However, in contrast to BeReal, which automatically asks users to share images, Roll Call is a thread in a group chat that users can start at any time. For example, a user can prompt other participants to show them what they're having for lunch. A timed countdown is included in the prompt to encourage participation, and a notification is sent to all users in the group chat when someone starts a roll call. Once someone submits an image or video, they can view the other responses. Also Read: Facebook's Messenger Update: Enhanced User Experience Meta is exploring the possibility of introducing Roll Call to its other platforms, such as Instagram. In October of last year, developer and reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi discovered that Instagram was working on a roll call feature for DMs.

⚡️FIRST LOOK: Meta is testing its BeReal-style ‘Roll Call’ feature in Messenger pic.twitter.com/UzMkRhba4K
— Matt Navarra (@MattNavarra) February 22, 2023

While BeReal's popularity last year caused social media giants to rush to release similar features, the abundance of these features might not be desirable for consumers. Over the past year, we've seen popular social media companies copy each other in various ways. However, the features they offer will eventually cause their apps to become overcrowded, which might not be what consumers want. It is currently unknown when or if Meta intends to launch Roll Call publicly, as the feature is still in the internal testing phase. The finished product could look different from the test product, as is typical with any prototype. The feature is intended to assist people in sharing authentic moments with their friends and family, which is also the goal of BeReal.

By Jozeph P

Journalism explorer, tech Enthusiast. Love to read and write.

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