The COVID-19 pandemic has led to thousands of businesses & employees opting to work remotely. To facilitate easier communication, video conferencing tools have become increasingly popular.
Here are 5 popular video conferencing tools:
One of the most widely used communication tools available, Zoom offers both a free & paid plan. With 12.92 million users, Zoom has seen an explosion of signups since January & an increase of 21% over the entire user base from the previous year. Limitations on the free plan are generous with up to 100 members allowed as long as a meeting of 3 or more persons does not exceed a 40 min cutoff allowance. All other features, such as screen sharing plus video & audio recording are available free of charge on the Android, IOS & the Web app. Security issues flaw, however, is an immediate watch point.
Just about everyone uses WhatsApp, so although the app only supports 4 conference/group callers at a time, it might be convenient for SMEs needing to keep in touch with remote workers. Video calls only work on the Android & IOS apps, because the Web version does not support calls. Simply use the + button to add contacts to a call, & your conference is up & running if contacts accept the call. All features are free & run over Wi-Fi.
Skype is one of the oldest & most well known VoIP apps on the market. Skype users can initiate a video conference call for up to 49 other people, for an unlimited duration, at no cost. Users do, however, need to download Skype to participate.
Webex
To combat the spread of Covid-19, Webex has introduced a generous free tier – up to 100 participants with no time limit. Webex’s free plan comes with all you’d expect from enterprise level software & includes screen sharing support for iPhone, iPad, Android, & wearable devices. The plan also allows call-in video & straight-up VOIP. Other features include HD video, personal call rooms & active speaker thumbnail view.
FreeConference
Up to five video participants & 1000 audio participants for an unlimited duration. The key here is that this app is browser supported so participants don’t need to download specific software to start or join a conference. However, in app features such as audio or video recording are limited.
