zoom focus mode: Zoom rolls out Focus mode, here’s how it is different from Apple and Microsoft’s similar features – morningtidings

Focus mode seems to be the buzzword in the tech world — at least right now. Earlier this year, Apple announced a Focus Mode with iOS 15 update that can be applied to all Apple devices at the same time. Then, very recently, Microsoft announced Focus Sessions that it would be rolling out with Windows 11 update. Now, popular video conferencing app Zoom has rolled out a feature on its platform called Focus mode.
Zoom’s focus mode is being aimed at virtual classrooms and the company says that it is going to help teachers in keeping their classroom distractions free.
How does Zoom’s Focus mode work?
Zoom’s Focus mode will allow the teacher to see their students’ videos, and students to see their teachers without seeing other class participants. This means that the feature gives the host and co-hosts a view of all participants’ videos without other participants seeing each other.
In Focus mode, participants will see the host, co-hosts, and participants spotlighted by the host and their own video but only see other participants’ names, their nonverbal feedback or reactions, and hear them when unmuted.
Focus mode works in case of screen sharing also as host and co-host can view and switch between each participant’s shared screen, however, during this time, participants can only view their own content.
Focus mode compatibility
This feature will be enabled for desktop clients for now for Windows 5.7.3 or higher and macOS 5.7.3 or higher.
Apple’s Focus Mode
With the Focus Mode from Apple, users will be able to set filters to notifications, calls, and even messages. Users can get alerts exactly how and when they need them at particular times. There’s an auto-reply feature as well which can automatically send messages when you don’t want to use the iPhone. Once Focus mode is on, there’s an option to customise the home screen as well.
Microsoft’s Focus Sessions
Touted as a ‘game-changer’ by Windows and Devices chief Panos Panay, Microsoft’s Focus Sessions allows users to select a task from a list of tasks for a particular Focus Session. Post this, it will allow users to select the time limit for that task with support for optional breaks in between.