What Are Facebook Messenger Rooms?

Facebook messenger rooms allow up to 50 people to video chat. Unlike other platforms, this service has no time limit. However, this feature isn’t private, as Facebook continues to record participant information.

What is the Purpose of Facebook Rooms?

Simply put, Facebook rooms allow up to 50 people to meet and have a giant video call at once. This feature is available to all types of profiles, including personal profiles. Therefore, the uses for this feature are nearly endless. 

In the days of COVID, this feature was often used for birthday parties and similar events. Additionally, these rooms can be as public or private as you wish. For instance, you can make it “private” and only allow invited participants to join. Or, you can leave it open to anyone. 

This feature is similar to Zoom and is used in similar ways. However, it tends to be utilized more for personal use, though businesses could technically use it as well. 

Are Facebook Rooms Private?

Facebook rooms are not private by default. However, when you open a room, you can “lock it” to only invited participants. Therefore, if you invite everyone you want and then lock the room, it is effectively private. 

Furthermore, you can kick participants out of the room. So, if someone manages to join before you lock it, you can eliminate them. You can also use this method to fill up the room without invitations.

For instance, you can wait for everyone who is supposed to be there to join, kicking those who join when they aren’t meant to. Then, you can lock the room when everyone is in. 

However, even when locked, this service isn’t strictly private as it isn’t end-to-end encrypted, which means the chance of information being hacked is higher. 

Additionally, it still collects data like the rest of Facebook. 

Therefore, for those who want a truly private experience, you may want to stick with Zoom. 

What Happens When You Create a Room on Facebook?

You can use rooms to meet and chat with just about anyone. When you create a room, a video chat opens. By default, anyone can join these video chats. However, you can only lock them for those invited. 

For larger groups, inviting everyone can be a bit of a pain. Therefore, rooms are best used for public events, like exercise classes. 

Many groups also use Facebook rooms to allow discussion with other group members. However, these chats are usually public to all group members. 

Who Can See Your Facebook Room?

There are two options for people who can see Facebook rooms. 

The first option allows all your friends to see your room. In this case, anyone you’re friends with can join. If you’re looking for a more open option, you should aim for this. 

The second option allows only those you invite to see the room. Therefore, this is the best option if you plan a chat for only specific people.

Are Facebook Rooms Recorded?

According to the company, they do not listen to your calls or videos through Facebook. However, the company has stated that it collects data via rooms just like any other part of its app.

The company collects data no matter how you join the room. For example, even if you join without an account, it will still collect data connected to your IP address. Therefore, while Facebook isn’t actively recording your videos, it isn’t entirely private. 

So, a different video app is typically suggested for a more private option. 

How Do I Turn Off Facebook Rooms?

You cannot completely turn off this feature. However, if you don’t want to use it, you don’t have to use it. 

You can turn off specific rooms. The room will end in this case, and no one else can join it. All current participants will also be forced to exit. To do this, swipe up on the menu in the room. Select the settings option from the list. Then, tap “End Room.”

Generally, if the meeting was around for only a specific reason, it is recommended to end the room once it is complete. Otherwise, you may end the chat whenever everyone is done. 

How Do You Join a Facebook Room?

If the call is open, you can visit the person or company’s page. You should see the video call with the option to join from there. 

If a call is locked, you cannot see or join it without an invite. However, you should request an invite if you’re meant to join. 

Additionally, this invite will show up in your notifications. Once you see it, click the join button on the invite, which will take you to the individual’s room.

For more information about Facebook, check out Facebook Engagement Rating, Facebook Reels, and Facebook Reach.