The COVID-19 outbreak has forced many companies to completely go virtual using software like Zoom to conduct meetings.

 

According to TrustRadius and Google Trends, impressions and usage for web conferencing platforms continue to increase as quarantine and lockdown extension are being effected.

 

Web conferencing software has seen an increase of 445% in impressions since the beginning of the pandemic. Zoom’s app, in particular, has seen more download than any other app on Apple’s app store.

 

Zoom’s CEO Eric Yuan also confirmed: “[there is] a large increase in the number of free users, meeting minutes and new video use cases.”

 

Undoubtedly, video conferencing software and apps have now become commonplace and highly sought after for working remotely. Yet, you will agree that understanding how to successfully use these tools can be a frustrating process for some.

 

Of all the functions available on Zoom, one that has been the most challenging is figuring out how to change your default background or customize your background image.

 

Moreso, using the same background might become boring. So here’s how to change your background on Zoom to a beautiful new one to spice up your meetings.

Also read:
– Google Bans Employees From Using Zoom Over Security Vulnerabilities
– Amidst Disagreements, Google’s Head of Quantum Computing Hardware Resigns
– Security: Singapore MoE Resumes Using Zoom “Progressively”

Changing your default background

• Pin Zoom on your desktop or browser and log into your account.
• Join or create a new meeting.
• Once in the meeting, click the upward arrow in the bottom left corner of the screen. Don’t click the “Stop Video” button in the same area of the screen.
• Once you click the arrow, you’ll see an option to “Choose Virtual Background.” Select that option.
• This will take you to a new Settings window. Here you can choose from a default background or upload your own. 

Uploading a new background image

In the Settings window, click the plus icon on the right side of the screen to upload your own background image. Here are the image guidelines to follow for your background image:

• Format: GIF, JPG/JPEG, or 24-bit PNG (no alpha). Any transparent areas of the PNG will be shown on a white background.
• Minimum dimension: 960px
• Maximum dimension: 1920px
• Recommended dimensions: 1920px by 1080px (16:9 aspect ratio). If you don’t use an image with a 16:9 aspect ratio, you may see black bars on the sides of the image.
• Maximum file size: 5 MB
• Select your image and click “Open.”
• To remove your uploaded image, click “Delete” or “Reset.” If your account has a default image, that image will replace your previously uploaded image.

Change the default background for all Zoom Rooms

To change the default background image for all of the Zoom Rooms in your account, follow these instructions:

 

• Log into your Zoom account.
• Click “Room Management” and then “Zoom Rooms.”
• Click “Account Settings” at the top of the page.
• On the Account Profile tab, click “Upload New Image” under Background Image for Zoom Rooms.
• Select your image and click “Open.”

Additional tips to keep in mind for achieving the best background

• Use a solid colour background, so the end result will be similar to a green screen effect.
• Upload a high-quality picture so people aren’t distracted by a pixelated image.
• Find a spot in your house with uniform lighting and colour to set up your computer when using Zoom.
• Don’t wear clothes that match your background to ensure you stand out.

 

If you’re new to Zoom, be sure to visit the Zoom Support Center to learn more about all of the available tools and features.

 

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