Whether you are working remotely or just want to hang out with your friends virtually, it is important to use a reliable video conferencing software. The software must be user friendly, has a lot of useful tools, and safe. It’s a bonus if the software or app is free! If you are a newbie when it comes to this kind of technology, this article is all you need to help you start!
Is Video Conferencing Expensive?
Considering all factors, shifting online and adapting to video conferencing is the cheapest way to meet with other people. Assuming that everyone has access to an internet connection and a device, working digitally is the new trend. There are also a lot of free video conferencing apps and software that you can use to further reduce expenses. Collaborating digitally can save you and your team some travel costs and time. Nowadays, productivity, flexibility, and reliability among the team are more important over face-to-face meetings.
Here are some of the best conferencing apps and software that are free!
• Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts is no doubt, one of the best webinar software to use. To schedule a meeting, you can download the app or join one via the web. However, you need to use a Gmail account to use this app. Google Hangouts is also integrated into other GSuite apps. You will automatically see all your scheduled meetings when you check your Google Calendar, send invites over Gmail, or collaborate using the other apps. You can add up to 10 people, including the host, in one conference call. You can also use the chat feature, screen sharing, and audio. Each conference call is also encrypted so you don’t have to worry about security and privacy.
• Jitsi.org
If you are looking for a multi-platform that can hold more participants, then check out Jitsi.org. It has end-to-end encryption, a good set of features, and can hold up to 75 participants. Through Jitsi.org, you can record the whole conference call or start a live stream of your call. Jitsi.org is an open-source software that is compatible with Android, macOS, Windows, and Linux devices. This platform also has some useful features like screen sharing, muting participants, and blurring the background. If you are planning to hold a webinar, Jitsi.org is the best fit!
• Lark Suite
Enjoy unlimited video conference calls with Lark! You can share your calendar, collaborate over a document, or chat with other members of your team. Lark also has a subtitle feature to help solve language barriers and be more inclusive to deaf teammates. It also has a Touch Up Appearance for last-minute meetings. Say you just woke up and your boss wants to have an online meeting with you, no need to rush to apply your makeup. This feature will instantly give you a subtle fresh look in seconds.
• Cisco Webex
Join Cisco Webex for free without the need of enrolling your credit card. You can add up to 100 people to the call. Enjoy HD video calls, room, and screen sharing when you use Cisco Webex. Cisco Webex is one of the most trusted software of large businesses around the world. Over 130 million people use Webex to collaborate with their teams and work on their projects. Cisco Webex is also known for its software’s multi-layer security. You can also download the app in the Play Store or App Store.
• Spike
Spike is another cloud-based video conferencing software that you can enjoy for free. No need to download an app, software, install a plugin, or even create an account to use Spike! You can use any browser for Spike. You can connect with as many people as you want without Spike collecting your data. Your calls are also secured with SRTP encryption, a built-in screen share tool, and no ads! There are also no time limits for every conference call. Its interface is easy to navigate so beginners can use it without any problems.
• Talky
Unlike other video conferencing apps, Talky generates unique URLs that you can use as a conference call room. Similar to Spike, you don’t need to download any software, app, plugin, or even an account to use Talky. Simply go to the Talky website, generate a unique URL, then send the link to your teammates. All they need to do is click the URL to join the conference call. If you and your team don't meet online that often, then Talky is for you.
WhatsApp is a famous communication platform in Asia. Wherever you are in the world, voice calling is free when you use the app. You can also use the web version of WhatsApp to video chat with other people. You can sync your WhatsApp application on the phone and web. It is also highly secured because it supports end-to-end encryption. WhatsApp also supports document sharing, voice messages, chat, and photos. If you are looking for a straightforward and easy to use app, WhatsApp can do the job for you. However, it lacks some basic features like screen sharing, muting other participants, and live stream features.
• RingCentral Meeting
Enjoy unlimited HD video and audio with RingCentral Meeting. You can download the app to your Android, Windows, Mac, and iOS. You can meet with up to 500 people! Screen share your presentation, chat, record your meetings, annotate, and more on this platform! You can also use the breakout rooms to form smaller groups in your conference call. RingCentral is good for large group calls, webinars, online classes, and even online team buildings!
Collaborate online with your teammates!
When it comes to running a business, you have to be smart when it comes to expenses and taking care of your people. Shifting to a digital platform can save you and your teammates' money and time. If you are working remotely with a team, you can use some free video conferencing software and apps to collaborate with other people. The ones mentioned in this article are some of the safest, flexible, and easy to use video conferencing software.
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