Mozilla recently launched the stable (final) version 36 of its open source Firefox browser. The latter made a mark with the Internet community because it was among the 1st of the Internet browsers that was HTTP/2 (new version of the http protocol) ready. But besides that acclaim, the latest version of Firefox has introduced Hello, a way for just about anyone, anywhere to connect with video calls Online for free.
Tech that Firefox Hello uses
Firefox Hello uses a technology called WebRTC to let you make video & voice calls from your browser. WebRTC is a technology project that lets you communicate instantly using only your browser – no other software is needed. WebRTC uses a simple set of rules (called API) that isn’t limited to just 1 software program. Programmers can take this API and use it on other applications. Which means, Web developers can use the code to install the same in other browsers that for now, are not WebRTC compliant.
WebRTC is free & open to people who want to contribute or use the API on other projects.
So how does this Online video calling work?
If you have the latest version of Firefox, you already have Hello. If not, download it. The best part about using this Online video call facility is that you do not need an account or need to sign-in to use it, nor do you have anything to download. It’s, as Mozilla says, right within your browser.
The Firefox Hello button should be on your toolbar. It looks something like this. If you can’t find it in the menu, check in the Additional Tools & Features drawer 1st. You can move it from there to a spot that’s convenient for you.
To start a conversation, click on the Hello button, generate a link & then send your friend the link & ask them to click on it. Simple. Even if your friend does not have Firefox installed & uses another browser, it still works. As of now, this Online video call facility is compatible with Google Chrome & Opera.
Because Hello is built right into Firefox, you can rest easy knowing that your conversations & information will remain private & secure, something that is of vital importance in today’s world.
To start a conversation with someone directly, simply create a free Firefox Account or sign in if you have one already — it’s the same account you use with Sync. You can then add contacts to keep them close at hand.
Image Credit: Mozilla
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