Useful functions in the latest Zoom update
The latest update of the Zoom software, to version 5.5.2, has some interesting features to anyone using Zoom and to teachers specifically. Read more about live video sharing in Zoom, a new virtual background and where the raise hand function and non-verbal communication have moved.
How to know if you have Zoom version 5.5.2
This news article applies to the version 5.5.2 update of Zoom. IT has a page for technical information if you need help updating Zoom or see which version you have .
New features
Share video and audio directly in Zoom
It has always been possible to share video and audio in Zoom by playing the video on your computer and then sharing the screen, but now Zoom has a built-in video player that works much more smoothly and requires no special settings.
To find the function, click on "Share screen" in Zoom and then go to the "Advanced" tab. There you will find the option "Video".
If you want to know more about the function, read more about sharing and playing video directly in Zoom (zoom.us) .
Blurred background ("Blur") is now available
When you want to hide the room behind you in the webcam, Zoom has long had virtual backgrounds. Now they have added a new variant that blurs everything behind you instead of covering it with a picture. This feature is called "Blur", and you will find it where you select your virtual background.
If you want to know more about virtual backgrounds, read more about virtual backgrounds in Zoom (zoom.us) .
Raise hand and other non-verbal communication have been moved
Previously, Zoom has kept reactions and non-verbal communication separate, but now "raise hand" and all other non-verbal communication have been moved to the "Reactions" button instead of the "Participants" list. It has thus become easier to use them.
However, the list of participants will still show who uses which non-verbal communication, and for the host there will still be a summary at the bottom of the list of participants.
If you want to know more about non-verbal communication, read more about non-verbal communication and reactions in Zoom (zoom.us) .
Previous updates and more information
If you want to know more about Zoom, IT has a page that lists things that are Good to know about Zoom , and E-learning has a page about web meetings using Zoom .
If you are going to use Zoom during an exam, the page answers the most common questions.
You can also read about everything that has been updated in Zoom on the page about Zoom's release notes (zoom.us) .