The video conferencing application, Zoom has become massively popular during the current pandemic. Many people relied on the app to get in touch with their loved ones both near and far. Plus, it also became a favorite tool for many businesses that used it to conduct professional meetings. However, as more and more people began to use Zoom, a number of concerns started to surface about the tool’s security and privacy record. As the uncertainty about Zoom’s security grew, people around the globe actively began to seek other tools. If you too are also among one of them then your search ends here! Why? Well, because this article will list 5 great tools which are just as great as Zoom if not more. So, what are they? Well, let’s find out!
1. Skype Meet Now
Skype has always been a trusted tool for one-on-one conversations. It has now introduced a new feature called Meet Now. It is located on the left side of the application. This feature will allow you to videoconference. The number of people that can participate vary and will depend on your device and platform. What’s more? There is a separate page that would allow you to create a free video meeting without you needing to sign up for the service. This tool has many exciting features and they are as follows
- You can record the call for up to 30 days
- It enables you to share presentations
- Allows you to blur the background if you feel like doing so
2. Cisco Webex
Webex is probably one of the oldest video conferencing tools that was introduced during the ‘90s. In 2007, it was acquired by Cisco. Although it is popular as a business app that continues to serve different companies, it has a free version that you should totally check out. It has many amazing features which is what makes this app so in-demand. And here are some of them
- Allows you to include 100 participants
- Gives you the call-in for audio option
- There is no time limit for the meeting
3. Google Meet
Google Meet that was initially known as Hangouts Meet was only accessible to educators or those who subscribed to G Suite. However, the multinational tech giant has now announced that it will be making this service available for everyone and that too for free! This feature will become available on Gmail. But, keep in mind that it might take some time before the service reaches your account. And when it does, then you will be able to use it to video chat with your family, friends, and colleagues. To launch a meeting, simply head over to Meet and hit ‘Join or Start a Meeting.’ You can then give the meeting whichever name you like and then send invites to the participants. Here are some features of this fantastic tool
- You can do video conferencing for up to 60 minutes
- You can include 100 participants
4. Whereby
Whereby is another great tool that you can use for your video conferencing needs. This platform will allow you to create a single meeting room. You can have the room occupied with up to 4 participants. Every room will have its own URL and guess what, you can get to choose it yourself. Moreover, this tool can let you share a screen, has a chat screen and some cool emoji too. Now, let’s take a look at some of its features
- Gives you the ability to lock meeting rooms
- You can integrate YouTube videos
- You can mute or eject participants
5. Jitsi Meet
Jitsi Meet is a one of its kind, open-source platform that enables you to meet online. All you have to do is navigate through the website and hit “Go.” The web version of this tool is really helpful and is loaded with incredible features. Here are some of them
- The tool offers you the option of both private and public chat
- You can add up to 75 participants. However, it is advised to add just 35 for an optimal experience
- You can blur the background
- It can easily integrate with Office 365, Google Calendar, and Slack
Conclusion
As the world is still going through a pandemic, it is better if you use video conferencing tools to interact with one another while practicing social distancing. The above-mentioned tools are some of the best ones from the lot. Also, while using them, it is recommended to check your internet as you would not like the conversation to break midway just because your connection got disrupted. I personally use the internet service of Charter Spectrum. It hasn’t let me down even once. You too can either go for the same ISP or can search for other options but whichever you select, just make sure that they deliver you a reliable connection.
