Nowadays, we talk very less on our phone. The blame for this trend is to be found in mobile applications of instant messaging, which have favored emojis and short sentences compared to voice conversations.
This app dependency such as WhatsApp, Telegram or Line is intended in a mobile and hyperlinked context in which the user is happy to get quick answers from friends or family, or is looking for entertainment in downtime like the journey to the work or waiting for a medical examination.
Beyond these uses, many still expect to return home to make a telephone conversation in more private conditions. And why use the conventional telephone line when they can make video calls over the Internet and benefit from the rates they are already paying to the operators?
To set up a video call you only need three things: device connected to the network, headset (not essential, but their use is convenient because it eliminates many noises) and a free application of VoIP (Voice Over IP).
Skype is one of the most popular VoIP programs, but there are other free alternatives to this proposal.
Programs similar to Skype for video calls
1.- Facetime
It is an option for lovers of the Apple world that can be used from Desktops and Laptops of this company or from iPhone and iPad. In the latter case, it only allows you to establish calls and video conferences between iOS users.
2. Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts PC and laptop, as well as on mobile devices with Android and iOS operating systems. Among its features, its users highlight the possibility of group video calls and live broadcasts for different users, which is very useful for online courses and seminars.
3. ICQ
Created in 1996, it was one of the first instant messaging programs on the Internet. Now it also incorporates video calls from computers and mobile devices, both iOS and Android.
4. Jitsi
Alternative and cross-platform open source (for Windows, Mac and Linux computers) that can be used without downloading anything. To do this, just open a Chrome tab and write http://meet.jit.si. It is the preferred option for those who are more concerned about protecting their communications, as it encrypts all calls and messages and allows the user to configure different levels of security.
5. Oovoo
Group calls of up to 12 participants are one of Oovoo’s main resources, which also allows you to record video calls, share the screen and send video messages to your contacts. Available for all types of computers and Android and iOS devices.
6. Tango
Focused on the smartphone world, although it is also available for Windows computers, this application is compatible with Android, iOS, Blackberry and Kindle devices. It allows you to make calls and video calls, chat and send messages.
7. Tox
Like Jitsi, Tox is an open source tool that uses an encryption system to protect communications between its users. It offers messaging, calls and file transfer between users.
8. Viber
Available for a wide range of desktops, laptops and mobile devices, Viber began to stand out a few years ago from instant messaging applications thanks to its VoIP call option. Now it also includes video calls.
9. Webex
More oriented to the business environment, this Cisco tool has a free version called WebEx Meeting Basic and with which you can share the webcam with up to three people at a time.
10. Wechat
With the versions for smartphones and Mac computers, this application is presented as a combination of WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter that also offers the video call service.