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Webex is a video conferencing service that remains as popular today as when it was founded in 1995. It may not be the most famous of these services, but knowing how to use it won’t hurt.
One thing it was originally missing is the ability to use virtual backgrounds. But in this article, you will learn how to set up a virtual background when using Webex. You’ll also discover how to do this on both computers and mobile devices. Finally, we’ll also answer some of your burning questions about Webex features.
Initially, Webex did not have this feature for its video conferencing services. This caused the app to fall behind in popularity compared to other competitors. However, in 2020, Cisco introduced an update that finally allowed users to change the background during video conferences and meetings.
Nowadays, you only need to have Webex installed on your device. Some device requirements are also needed.
Device requirements for changing funds
Not all computers or mobile devices can use the virtual background feature. Virtual backgrounds require more power from your CPU, which can put a strain on the hardware. Therefore, less powerful devices will not display any options during a video conference call.
How to use a virtual background in Webex
You must have Webex installed on your device and updated to the latest version. If not, we recommend doing it now. After this, you can start using a background during a conference call.
On the desk
First, we will see how to use the virtual background on a computer. The steps apply to both Windows and Mac, so users of either can read on.
The steps on a computer are:
- Before joining a meeting, start Webex.
- Locate the “Change Background” option in the top left or right corner of the screen.
- On Windows, it’s on the left and Mac users should look in the right corner.
- On Windows, it’s on the left and Mac users should look in the right corner.
- Select the image or the “Blur” option as you wish.
- Select “Apply” to save your settings.
- Join a meeting with your new virtual background.
During a meeting, you can also change your virtual background. That is how:
- Go to the top left or right of the screen during a meeting.
- Select “Audio and video.”
- Go to “Camera” and then “Change virtual background.”
- Switch to a new virtual background.
- Apply the changes.
- Continue with the meeting.
On desktop, these steps only work in Webex Meetings and the Webex Unified App. Webex Training does not support the feature at all.
We also recommend that you select an image with a size of 1280 x 720 pixels or larger. Appropriately sized images will allow Webex to fit the image into your virtual background. Any smaller or incorrectly formatted photos will result in an unnatural background.
Your Webex site administrator should also allow you to use a virtual background. If you know your device is supported and the option still doesn’t appear, the feature is likely disabled. Ask your administrator for the right to use it if this is the case.
On Android and iPhone
On mobile devices, users can only change their funds after joining a meeting. Because of this requirement, we recommend joining a meeting without enabling your video first. Doing so will give you enough time to set up your virtual background.
Here’s how to change the background on mobile devices:
- Launch Webex on your mobile device.
- Join a meeting with your camera disabled for now.
- Select “Video.”
- Select “Virtual Background.”
- Choose an image or the Blur option.
- Apply settings.
- Enable your camera.
- Continue with your meeting.
This feature is relatively new compared to using a virtual background on computers. There may be more errors, so you will have to be careful.
Similar to Webex on a desktop, you need permission to use a virtual background. The option will not appear on your compatible device if the feature is disabled.
Tips to distinguish yourself from your environment
Virtual background technology isn’t perfect by any means, but it’s still great for meetings. There are a few ways to avoid blending into your surroundings. It mainly comes down to colors and lighting.
Your room should be well lit, as Webex needs enough light to differentiate it from the background. Darker rooms tend to make you look blended into your surroundings. Turn on some lights and lamps.
Professional lights can be purchased for conference calls. These give off a bright, uniform glow to help the camera capture its surroundings. These work for both computers and mobile devices.
What you wear also matters when using a virtual background. Since the goal of the app is to eliminate the colors behind you, do not wear clothing that is the same or similar color as your wall or background. To your coworkers and boss, you will appear as a disembodied head floating in the air. So if your clothes match the background, we recommend that you change to something else.
Moving objects will also alter the illusion of your virtual background. If you live with other people, ask them not to walk behind you during the meeting. This way you will have the perfect background for your meetings.
Additional FAQs
How to use a webaround in Webex?
A Webaround is a portable green screen that attaches to your chair and features a uniform, solid-color background. It can be folded into a small package and fit in any travel bag. If you are not a fan of large green screens, you should consider purchasing one for yourself.
Here’s how you’ll use Webaround with Webex:
1. Set up Webaround by attaching it to your chair.
2. Make sure it is firmly connected before sitting down.
3. Start Webex.
4. Locate the “Change Background” option in the top left or right corner of the screen.
to. On Windows, it’s on the left and Mac users should look in the right corner.
5. Select the image or “Blur” option as you wish.
6. Select “Apply” to save your settings.
7. Join a meeting with your new virtual background.
And there you have it. It’s easy, as the solid green color will allow for a better quality virtual background during your meetings. Of course, you should avoid using the color green as it will start to blend.
Does Webex have a chroma key feature?
Webex does not have this feature built in for its users. To use a chroma key with your green screen, you will have to use other software.
Are you at the beach?
Webex’s virtual background feature is a great way to allow home workers to maintain some privacy or appear to be in an interesting location. Now that you know how to set it up, you can impress your coworkers with these tech skills. They will ask you how to do it themselves.
