5 Free and Easy Video Chat Apps to use During Social Distancing

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The Corona Virus has forced us to stay 6 feet apart from our loved ones. Drive-by birthday parties and conversations through windows are the new norm. But thanks to modern technology you can actually enjoy a cup of coffee with a friend or share a dinner with a family member through video chat. It’s like being in the same room with your favorite person minus the risk of contracting anything harmful, which nowadays is more important than ever.

You don’t have to be computer savvy or a tech guru to know how to use a video chat app. You might already have some of these apps on your cell phone! Below is a list of 5 free and easy-to-use video chat apps that you can use to see your loved ones during social distancing.

FaceTime. FaceTime for iPhone is probably the most popular video chat app out there, and if you already have an iPhone or Apple device, like an iPad or Mac, you’re already ready to go! All you have to do is go to the contact name you want to call, click the video camera button, and watch as your favorite person appears on screen. Just remember, FaceTime video chat is only compatible with Apple devices, so make sure your loved owns an Apple device before FaceTiming.

Skype. Skypevideo chat is perfect for smartphones, tablets, and computers equip with a camera, regardless of the brand. All you’ll need to do is head to Skype’s website or the app store on your phone, choose which device you’d like to use Skype on, and you’re ready to download. Downloading is fast and easy. Go nuts and invite a bunch of your friends and family to join in on the call. With Skype you can have over 25 people join in!

WhatsApp. Another great free video chat option, WhatsApp can easily be downloaded through the app store on your phone, computer, or tablet. It can also act as a WiFi-enabled text messaging option if your smart device cannot send text messages. WhatsApp is a must-have for anyone with internationally-based friends or family. The app’s reliability is great for overseas calls and messages and comes with a slew of cute emoji features to make calls and texts fun!

Zoom. Zoom has become a popular choice for video chats during the Pandemic. Note, Zoom is free for up to 100 people on your call for 40 minutes, so you’ll have to be mindful of time. Best to opt for another app if you have a lot of catching up to do with your loved one or it may just be what’s needed for those chatty Cathys you can never seem to get off the phone! Zoom also has fun backgrounds and different features to make your video calls more entertaining. You can easily download Zoom through their website or the app store on your smart device.

Google Meet. Google Meet is known for its simplicity—you can’t beat its ease of use, and there are no hidden bells and whistles that make calling confusing. Note, you will need to have a G Suite or a standard Google account in order to set up your Google Meet. Here’s an easy guide to setting up your G Suite account is you don’t already have one.

Some helpful tips. Be sure to have a good WiFi connection when you’re using these video apps to ensure uninterrupted conversation during your calls. You’ll also need to have a smart device in order to use these apps. Not to worry, most devices are considered “smart” nowadays—this could be an iPhone or Android, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer, which will have the camera and necessary features needed to download and use these apps. Social distancing doesn’t mean complete isolation. Make a point to schedule a video chat with loved ones on a weekly basis. Make it a virtual coffee date, enjoy dinner together, or just appreciate seeing each other’s faces while lounging on the couch!

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