The popularity of group video call apps has risen astronomically over the past few weeks. Global social distancing trends have prompted this heroic rise of group video calling apps. With a flurry of video chat apps, you might get confused about what to choose for your remotely working team or friends. Social distancing and lockdowns across countries have also triggered demands for custom group chat app development. In this post, we suggest the most useful group video chat apps.
Top free video chat apps to use while you maintain social distancing
1.Skype
Skype is most useful for big groups. This is an already popular communication app from Microsoft. The mobile version of Skype is better than the desktop one. It smoothly supports big groups without virtually unlimited call hours for free. However, if you’re concerned about emoji reactions and status updates, Skype might disappoint you to some extent.
2. Zoom
Zoom has almost become the most talked-about celebrity in the world of video calling over the past couple of weeks. The app, nevertheless, has faced some criticism as well, mainly due to privacy-related concerns. Zoom updated its privacy policy following the criticism. You can use Zoom for free up to 100 people for 40 minutes. The 40-minute limit forces people to end the call instead of unnecessarily dragging it for hours. So, it appears to be an advantage for many users.
3. Google Hangouts
This group video call platform allows a maximum of 25 people at a time and can be accessed via an app, Gmail, or other Google accounts. Google Hangouts is loved by users because it’s very easy to access (almost everyone has a Google account). On the downside, the app has some connectivity issues. So, you may face some obstacles while using it for professional collaboration activities.
4. Houseparty
Houseparty has an established reputation in the market long before the coronavirus outbreak and social distancing. It’s very popular among teens as a means of having fun with friends without leaving the house. Houseparty is most relevant and useful for a group of close friends. The app enables users to alert people and let them join the chat with minimal steps. The app offers in-built games and fun activities. However, the Houseparty has some issues in video quality. This calls for improvement in their video chat app development process.
5. FaceTime
FaceTime is a native video chat app for Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, and Mac computers. FaceTime offers free video calling with a maximum limit of 32 users at a time. FaceTime is convenient for iPhone users because this comes reinstalled. Also, like WhatsApp, you can use this app internationally over an internet connection.
Conclusion
These apps are most suitable for teams and individuals looking for a free, ready-to-use video chat solution. However, if you are managing an enterprise or a small business, the best way is to choose a custom group chat app development provider. A suitable app development company can build the most efficient video call and collaboration software designed according to your specific needs.
At OrangeMantra, we offer a complete range of app development services covering group chat apps and other collaboration tools. Leveraging our rapid software development method, we’ve built mobile apps for clients in record time. With an award-winning team of mobile app developers, we’re one of the most preferred digital solutions providers in the market. Nowadays, we’re working tirelessly to help clients worldwide in this fight against the virus pandemic. Having a group chat app or a team collaboration tool changes the way you run business operations amid disruptions caused by COVID-19.
FAQs
Q. What is the best video chat app?
Some of the most popular and useful video chat apps are:
-> Skype
-> Zoom
-> Google Hangouts
-> Houseparty
-> FaceTime, etc.
Q. What is social distancing?
Social distancing means maintaining a distance (of at least six feet) between you and other people. It also means minimizing contact with people, including avoid public transportation whenever possible, limiting nonessential travel, working from home and skipping social gatherings.
Q. What does remote work mean?
Remote work, or work from home (WFH), is a working style that allows professionals to work outside of a traditional office setting. It is based on the concept that work does not need to be done in a specific physical location to be executed successfully.
