Zoom removes 40-minute limit to Celebrate Festive Season Around the World from Dec 17 to Jan 2

COVID-19 has changed how we live, work, and celebrate in 2020. But, like everything else this year, the holiday season doesn’t look the same. Zoom communications, though, saw an overnight change in how people communicate, hold meetings and classes. The latest release from Zoom gives a beacon of hope.

The company states, "As a token of appreciation to the users during an extraordinary time, Zoom is removing the 40-minute limit on free Zoom accounts for all meetings globally for several upcoming special occasions. Whether coming together on the final day of Hanukkah, celebrating Christmas, ringing in the New Year, or marking the last days of Kwanzaa, those connecting with friends and family won’t get cut short."

Until now, Zoom had put a 40-minute limit for free users. Thus, there's a limit on dates of the unlimited usage as well.

Here are the dates and times for unlimited meetings:

8:30 pm IST Thursday, Dec. 17, to 4:30 pm IST Saturday, Dec. 19
8:30 pm IST Wednesday, Dec. 23, to 4:30 pm IST Saturday, Dec. 26
8:30 pm IST Wednesday, Dec. 30, to 4:30 pm IST Saturday, Jan. 2

What should the users do?

Users don’t need to do anything to remove the limit as Zoom will lift the restrictions automatically during these times. But it has provided some actions that users can take to ensure a wonderful virtual get-together with loved ones.

1. Protect your session from uninvited guests by requiring a meeting passcode to join and enabling Waiting Rooms – and don’t share your meeting IDs on social media or other public forums.

2. Learn how to get started on Zoom with basic tips and answers to frequently asked questions.

3. Download festive virtual backgrounds and have fun with the video filters!

4. Get creative with your video chat— check out some ideas for hosting virtual parties and tips for connecting with family and friends

Zoom also advises updating the app to ensure users have all the latest product and security features or sign up for a free account to schedule and host meetings.