Now that much of the population is at home, unable to go out and see loved ones, friends and family, technology becomes an essential ally when it comes to stay in touch with the rest of the world.
Thanks to messaging apps like WhatsApp we have gained a lot of ground when it comes to avoiding feeling isolated. However, you can always go one step further and resort to video calls.
And, fortunately, on both Android and iOS there are many tools that allow you to do so group video calls with other people. This time we wanted to collect the best that exists today.
We recommend: Which video calling app consumes more data than your rate?
Google Duo
Although on Android it is not possible to use FaceTime, the video calling service built into Apple devices, we have an alternative which, by default, is installed on most Android devices. This is Google Duo, a great tool to carry out video calls with up to 8 people, which works well even when using an unstable or slow internet connection.
Among its functions we find the possibility of add filters and live effects, a "night mode" that illuminates the scene even when there seems to be not enough light, or an interesting one data saving mode which will prevent consumption from skyrocketing and we wind up seeing surprises at the end of the month.
It's been nearly two years since WhatsApp introduced group video calling and since then the Facebook messaging app has become a favorite option for users, both Android and iOS.
Unlike Duo, WhatsApp recommends having one good internet connection for be able to make video calls. Also, the number of participants for each video call is limited to four, half of that of Duo.
House party
No wonder that Houseparty is became one of the most downloaded apps in various parts of the world during the COVID-19 crisis. For those who still do not know it, it is worth commenting that it is about an app that takes group video calling to the next level, thanks to the built-in minigames, contacting friends of friends and other people from all over the world, no need to have your mobile number and without having to give ours.
Skype
A classic in the field of video calling is Skype. The Microsoft tool has been a reference in the category of communication apps for years and until the arrival of video calls on WhatsApp and the rise of Google Duo, it was one of the most used options.
Skype offers the possibility of make video calls with up to 24 participants for free. In addition, there is also the option of download Skype Lite, a lighter version of the application that consumes less data and takes up less space, despite offering pretty much all the options available in the main app.
Discord
Another option to consider for making totally free group video calls is Discord. Although it was created as a communication tool for gamers, for many it has already become an essential tool when working from home thanks to the different communication options it offers.
Among them, of course, is the option of video chat with a maximum of 50 people. All this in a simple, fast and, above all, free way.
Messenger
Among the many functions and tools that Facebook Messenger hides, there has long been the possibility of make video calls with other users of the platform.
Yes, Instagram also includes video calls. The most used social network for images and videos in the world offers the possibility to carry out videochat, thanks to an option integrated directly into the direct messages, and represented by a video camera icon located in the upper right corner. Furthermore, it is possible add other people to an ongoing video chat, thus creating a group video call.
