Loom: Asynchronous Video Messaging for Teams

Overview

Loom is a platform for creating and sharing video messages, primarily used for asynchronous communication within professional contexts. Founded in 2016, the service enables users to record their computer screen, webcam, and microphone inputs simultaneously to produce short, shareable videos. These videos are then hosted on Loom's platform, accessible via a unique URL, and can be embedded into other applications or shared directly.

The platform is designed to address the challenges of real-time communication, particularly in distributed or remote work environments. Instead of scheduling live meetings, users can record explanations, demonstrations, or feedback, allowing recipients to consume the information at their convenience. This approach aims to reduce meeting fatigue and support more flexible work schedules. Common use cases include explaining complex technical processes, providing product demonstrations, delivering design feedback, conducting code reviews, and sharing quick team updates.

Loom's functionality extends beyond basic recording. It includes a browser extension, desktop applications for macOS and Windows, and mobile apps for iOS and Android, providing multiple avenues for content creation. After recording, users can perform basic edits, trim videos, add calls to action, and access automatically generated transcripts. The platform also offers analytics on video viewership, indicating who watched a video and for how long. For teams, Loom provides features for shared workspaces, custom branding, and administrative controls.

While Loom prioritizes ease of use for content creation and sharing, its developer experience is centered around its web application and desktop clients. As of 2026, there is no public API or SDK available for programmatic video creation or integration beyond embedding existing Loom videos into other web properties. This positions Loom as a user-facing tool rather than a platform for custom video application development. Its compliance certifications, including SOC 2 Type II, GDPR, CCPA, and Privacy Shield, indicate an adherence to data security and privacy standards for enterprise use Loom Security and Compliance.

Key features

• Screen Recorder: Capture full screen, specific windows, or custom regions, along with webcam and microphone audio.
• Video Editor: Basic editing tools for trimming, stitching, and adding calls to action to recorded videos.
• Video Transcription: Automated generation of text transcripts for recorded videos, enhancing accessibility and searchability.
• Instant Sharing: Videos are uploaded instantly and generate a shareable link, allowing for quick distribution.
• Viewer Analytics: Track who watches videos, when they watch, and engagement metrics.
• Team Workspaces: Collaborative spaces for organizing and sharing videos within teams, with administrative controls.
• Custom Branding: Options for adding company logos and colors to video players for a consistent brand experience.
• Comment and Reaction Tools: Viewers can leave timestamped comments and emoji reactions directly on videos.
• Drawing Tools: On-screen drawing and highlighting during recording to emphasize points.

Pricing

Loom offers a tiered pricing model, including a free Starter plan and paid options for teams and enterprises. The plans are structured to accommodate individual users up to large organizations requiring advanced features and compliance.

For the most current pricing details and feature comparisons, refer to the official Loom pricing page.

Common integrations

Loom integrates with various productivity and collaboration tools to streamline workflows. While it does not offer a public API for programmatic video creation, its sharing capabilities allow for embedding and linking within other platforms.

• Slack: Share Loom videos directly into Slack channels, with automatic previews.
• Google Workspace: Embed Loom videos into Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets.
• Jira: Attach Loom videos to Jira tickets for bug reports, feature explanations, or feedback.
• Notion: Embed Loom videos directly into Notion pages for documentation and knowledge sharing.
• Salesforce: Enterprise plan offers specific integrations for CRM workflows.
• Gmail: Quickly record and send Loom videos directly from the Gmail interface.

Alternatives

Several platforms offer similar screen recording and asynchronous video messaging capabilities, catering to various user needs and technical requirements.

• Claap: Focuses on video-first meeting summaries and asynchronous collaboration for product teams.
• Vidyard: Offers video hosting, analytics, and personalization for sales and marketing teams, alongside screen recording.
• Sendspark: Provides personalized video messaging for sales and customer success, with branding and call-to-action features.
• Microsoft Stream: A video service for enterprises to securely upload, organize, and share video content within an organization, integrated with Microsoft 365.

Getting started

To begin using Loom, the primary method involves installing one of its client applications or browser extensions. The following example outlines the general steps for recording and sharing your first video using the Loom Chrome extension, which is a common entry point for new users.

# Step 1: Install the Loom Chrome Extension
# Navigate to the Chrome Web Store and search for "Loom for Chrome".
# Click "Add to Chrome" and then "Add extension" to install it.
# You will see the Loom icon appear in your browser's toolbar.

# Step 2: Sign up or Log in
# Click the Loom icon in your browser toolbar.
# If you don't have an account, you will be prompted to sign up (e.g., with Google or Slack).
# If you have an account, log in with your credentials.

# Step 3: Configure your recording settings
# After logging in, click the Loom icon again.
# You will see options to select your recording type:
#   - Screen + Cam: Records your screen and webcam simultaneously.
#   - Screen Only: Records only your screen.
#   - Cam Only: Records only your webcam.
# Select your desired microphone and camera from the dropdown menus.
# You can also choose to record your "Full Desktop", a "Current Tab", or a specific "Window".

# Step 4: Start Recording
# Click the "Start Recording" button.
# If recording your screen, you might be asked to select which screen or application window to share.
# A countdown will appear, and then your recording will begin.

# Step 5: Finish Recording
# Perform your demonstration, explanation, or message.
# To stop recording, click the Loom icon in your toolbar and then click the red "Stop" button.
# Alternatively, use the recording controls that appear on your screen during the session.

# Step 6: Share Your Video
# Once stopped, your video will automatically upload to Loom's servers.
# A new browser tab will open with your video's unique shareable link.
# You can copy this link and paste it into emails, chat applications, or documentation.
# Options for basic editing, trimming, and adding calls to action will also be available on this page.

For detailed instructions on using specific features or other clients (desktop, mobile), refer to the official Loom Help Center.