iOS 17.4 Will Solve This Awkward Problem With Video Calls

With the iOS 17, iPadOS 17, and macOS Sonoma updates last year, Apple introduced gesture-based reactions in video calling apps like FaceTime, Zoom, and Google Meet, allowing you to fill the screen with 3D effects. For example, you can hold two thumbs up to show fireworks on the screen, or make two peace signs with your hands to show confetti.

iOS 17
Unfortunately, many users are unaware that this new feature is turned on by default, leading to some awkward and embarrassing moments during important video calls, such as online therapy sessions and business meetings.

Apple has since come up with a solution for this problem. Starting with iOS 17.4 and iPadOS 17.4, we have learned that video calling apps on the App Store will be able to turn off the reactions in their apps by default. Users would have to manually turn on the feature in Control Center to use it in those apps, so it will no longer be a surprise. This option likely extends to the Mac starting with macOS 14.4, but we have yet to confirm this.

ios 17 facetime effects
iOS 17.4, iPadOS 17.4, and macOS 14.4 are currently in beta, and the software updates are expected to be released in March. In the meantime, users can already easily turn off the reactions on their own end on the iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

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