Connect web app versions and differences
There are currently three different Connect web apps available to users connecting to a Pexip Infinity deployment. All three Connect web apps use the same API but each offers a different user interface, supports different Pexip Infinity features, and is customized separately.
Within the Administrator interface (e.g. when customizing the web apps or installing software bundles) the three web apps are differentiated as follows:
- Webapp3: this is the current version and was released with Pexip Infinity v30. This version is under active development and each release of Pexip Infinity includes updates to Webapp3 features and functionality. Version 35 of Pexip Infinity included a significant redesign and improvement to the Webapp3 user interface.
- For a guide to the differences in Webapp3 between Pexip Infinity versions 34 and 35, see Differences between Webapp3 versions.
- For a comprehensive Webapp3 user guide, see Using the Connect web app.
- Webapp2: this is the previous version, originally released with Pexip Infinity v18. This version is aligned with the current Connect desktop app and Connect mobile app in terms of user interface and functionality, and any customization of Webapp2 can also be applied to the Connect desktop app.
- For a guide to the differences between Webapp2 and Webapp3 in Pexip Infinity v35, see Differences between Webapp2 and Webapp3.
- For a comprehensive Webapp2 user guide, see Using the previous web app.
- Webapp1: this is the original "legacy" version, and is no longer actively developed or maintained and has been removed from the default installation of Pexip Infinity.
Setting which version is offered to users
Users access the web app via their browser by entering the IP address or FQDN of a Conferencing Node or reverse proxy in your deployment, either on its own or with a path appended. The web app version that users are offered depends on the path that they use to access the web app.
As an administrator you create and configure paths, including which web app version is associated with the path. You also configure where to redirect users who either do not enter a path or enter the /webapp path (supported by previous versions of Pexip Infinity) and which web app version is offered to those users.
For full details, see Creating path-based web app branding.
Differences between Webapp3 versions
Version 35 of Pexip Infinity included a significant redesign and improvement to the Webapp3 user interface, in particular the in-call controls. Updates included:
- Consolidation of buttons into functional groups to provide a clear hierarchy:
- main call controls
- meeting controls toolbar
- self-view controls
- global settings.
- Improved meeting header which now includes meeting information (e.g. name and duration) and contextual buttons for breakout rooms and virtual courts features.
- "Lock meeting" functionality moved to main toolbar for easy access.
- Reorienting the meeting controls toolbar from horizontal to vertical to improve responsiveness and to optimize the experience of users on all devices and screen sizes.
- Touch-optimized buttons and controls.
The following animation gives an overview of the main changes between Webapp3 in v34 and v35:
Differences between Webapp2 and Webapp3
We recommend that any customers still using Webapp2 move to Webapp3 to take advantage of the improved join experience and in-call experience, usability improvements, and integration with the latest Pexip Infinity features. These include:
- Different join flows for novice and regular users.
- Simplified and improved branding.
- Responsiveness across all screen sizes and devices.
- Improved error handling and assistance for users when setting up their microphone and camera.
- Focused and clear touch points for call control, meeting settings, and user settings.
- Distinction of participants who are either waiting in lobby or have raised their hands.
- User background replacement.
- Language selection.
Join experience
The following images show the main differences in the join experience between Webapp2 and Webapp3:
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