The ability to blur your background without using a third-party app - a feature that competitors like Google Meet and Microsoft Teams have offered for some time now - was off the table until Zoom included the feature with its 5.5.0 operating system update at the beginning of February 2021.īeing able to blur your background adds a whole extra level of privacy without forcing you to choose a virtual backdrop to swap in, and it's a welcome update for users who previously had to download an image and blur that background before uploading it to the platform. However, the feature generally works best with a green screen or when your real-life background is one consistent color. Zoom's virtual background feature, which exploded in popularity with the increase in remote workers and students during the coronavirus pandemic, allows you to swap out your IRL background for a backdrop of your choosing. If you're ready to test out the feature for your next video call, here's how to blur your Zoom backgrounds in real time. 1, the videoconferencing company finally rolled out the new feature as part of its 5.5.0 update - and it's a welcome addition for anyone looking for some more privacy.
While Zoom has been great for uploading virtual backgrounds, you haven't been able to blur you background without leaving the platform until recently.
