With the rise in remote work during the post-pandemic period, video-conferencing platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams are becoming increasingly popular and competing with each other. Microsoft Teams has taken a step forward by offering the option to use virtual avatars instead of live video during calls. Zoom has quickly followed suit with its version of this feature. Let’s explore both implementations.
Microsoft Teams’ Virtual Avatars
This feature, initially available to members of the Technical Access Program since late last year, enables users to create and use their personalized avatars during Teams video calls. These avatars utilize Microsoft’s Mesh feature set, which aims to provide users with presence and shared experiences from any location.
Mesh represents a significant metaverse initiative by Microsoft, intended to foster user creativity through enhanced connectivity and immersive experiences. The technology is intriguing, resembling Meta’s efforts in this space, including the characteristic of avatars appearing without lower bodies. You can explore more about it here.
This move by Microsoft blurs the boundaries between the virtual and physical worlds, allowing real users to virtually present themselves with dynamic avatars on screen. However, its reception remains uncertain, particularly in crucial meetings where expressing opinions as a virtual character may be challenging.
Zoom’s Virtual Avatars
Zoom’s recent introduction of virtual avatars, albeit a newer feature, doesn’t match the visual quality of Microsoft’s offering. Curiously, Zoom’s blog post announcing the feature shares similarities with Microsoft’s post from last November. The objective is to enable users to be more engaging, entertaining, adaptable, and present in virtual interactions.
Despite the corporate jargon, there are valid reasons why individuals may prefer not to display their real appearance or surroundings during video calls. Concerns like distracting backgrounds, personal appearance insecurities, or privacy preferences can drive this choice. In educational settings, these features can play a crucial role, addressing issues like privacy and social dynamics among students to prevent bullying.
Virtual avatars align well with educational scenarios, offering engaging and interactive experiences that promote learning. However, these features might not be suitable for high-stakes corporate meetings, where professionalism and authenticity are highly valued.
Image Source: DANIEL CONSTANTE / Shutterstock
