By Katie McCallum | Houston Methodist
Although in-person interactions like hugs and high-fives are irreplaceable, there are numerous apps, devices, and online services available to help you connect with your loved ones while maintaining safety at home. Here’s a selection of ten tools that can help you keep those connections vibrant.
Effective Communication Tools
With a plethora of free video chatting apps and web-based platforms, staying in touch with family and friends has never been easier. Below are some highly recommended options:
- WhatsApp: This globally accessible app allows users to send messages, make calls, and conduct video chats across various devices. WhatsApp ensures your communications remain private through encryption. Do note that calls will use mobile data if you’re not connected to Wi-Fi, and landline calls are not supported. You can download WhatsApp for iOS or Android, or access it on your computer.
- Skype: After setting up an account, you can exchange messages, photos, and videos with other Skype users. You can also call non-Skype numbers, including landlines, for a fee. Available for download on iOS or Android, or you can use it on your computer.
- Zoom: Initially a business conferencing tool, Zoom has become a popular choice for video calls, offering fun backgrounds and hosting up to 100 participants. However, free accounts are limited to a 40-minute call duration. For longer calls, consider their Pro plans, which are similarly priced to your monthly Netflix subscription. Download Zoom for iOS or Android, or use it on your computer.
- Google Hangouts: Most people with a Gmail account can initiate or join a video call on Google Hangouts. This service has no time limits for chats, but it does restrict the number of participants to 10. Download Google Hangouts for iOS or Android, or use it on your computer.
Devices to Foster Closeness
While apps and web platforms facilitate connection, certain in-home devices can enhance the experience, making it feel more personal and engaging. Here are a couple of options:
- Alexa Devices: The Echo Show serves as Amazon’s smart display, which can be used for hands-free video calls to other Echo Show users or anyone with the Alexa app. It can display your favorite photos, creating a sense of closeness throughout the day. Additionally, all Echo devices offer the Alexa Drop In feature, a voice call function that operates like walkie-talkies between Echo devices in different homes.
- Facebook Portal: This intelligent display from Facebook enables video chats with your friends via Facebook Messenger. Despite initial privacy concerns, it’s now recognized as one of the simplest devices for video communication. It also offers fun features like virtual masks and quirky backgrounds, making it entertaining for family gatherings. Furthermore, as Facebook owns WhatsApp, you can use the Portal to make WhatsApp video calls too.
Online Services for Interactive Hangouts
Video chatting is a wonderful way to connect, but sometimes you may want to participate in activities together. If you have a fun game system set up for video calls, try these online services that can replicate that casual hangout vibe:
- Netflix Party: This free Google Chrome extension allows users to synchronize Netflix shows or movies while chatting with friends. It’s important to note that Netflix Party works exclusively in Chrome on desktop and laptop devices. If you own a Chromecast, you might be able to project the screen to your TV.
- Steam: Home to over 30,000 video games and boasting 90 million active users, Steam offers social features like friends lists and in-game chats. It’s a cost-effective gaming platform without a subscription fee, featuring multiplayer games at a range of prices. Steam’s Remote Play Together lets you share a game with up to four friends remotely, streaming video, audio, and voice in real time.
- Collaborative Spotify Playlists: For music lovers, Spotify’s collaborative playlists make it easy to share and enjoy music with friends. This feature allows you and your pals to add your favorite tracks to a single playlist accessible from anywhere. Note that while collaborative playlists don’t require a Premium account, free users can only add songs via a computer. Download Spotify for iOS or Android, or on your computer.
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