Connecting with loved ones is incredibly important, but it’s also a bit tricky these days. How can you stay in in touch with loved ones near and far? How can you meet your new grandchild from halfway across the country? How can you join in on a birthday party if you aren’t able to attend in person? Video calls can do it all. If you’re not sure how to make video calls, don’t worry – most video-calling platforms are actually extremely easy to use, even if you’re not the most tech-savvy. Scroll down to learn how to make video calls from the comfort of your couch.
How to Make Video Calls
Make Video Calls with FaceTime
If you have an iPhone, you can use Apple’s video-calling feature known as FaceTime. FaceTime is convenient because you don’t have to install it – it’s pre-installed on most Apple products (iMac, MacBook, iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch). Don’t worry too much about navigating high-tech interfaces, because using FaceTime is very similar to making a phone call. You just place the call, hold the phone up to your face, and speak into the screen instead of holding it up to your ear. If you’d like more information about FaceTime, you can find a step-by-step FaceTime tutorial on Apple’s website.
Video Calling with Skype
All you need to use Skype is a computer with a webcam. Skype is a free, easy-to-use program that lets you connect with your loved ones using your webcam. All you have to do is download the Skype program from the internet, select the contact you want to call, and then select the video call button. You can also make group calls if you’d like to chat with multiple friends at the same time. During a Skype call, you’ll be able to chat face-to-face in a way that can make you feel much more connected than a phone call. YouTube channel TechBoomers also has a step-by-step Skype tutorial you can check out.
Video Calling with Amazon Echo
If you’d rather not tinker with gadgets, you might like the Amazon Echo smart speaker featuring voice-activated access. You can add an application called Echo Show that allows you to start a call by asking the speaker to call someone: for example, “Alexa, call Joe.” You can then turn off the video by saying “Alexa, end call.” The Echo is a great tool for individuals with visual or mobility impairments. However, note that you can only call people who are in your contacts, and you can only video chat with people who also have an Echo. Follow Amazon’s step-by-step instructions to set up your Echo Show.
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If you’re worried that video calls are too complicated, worry not – there are plenty of ways to make video calls that don’t require a high level of tech expertise. Easy tools like the iPhone’s FaceTime app, Skype, and the Amazon Echo Show all make it easier than ever to connect with friends and family. Next time you want to check in with a loved one, suggest you take things to a video call and enjoy a special meal or even a movie together. You might be surprised by how much closer you feel. With a little creativity and a bit of tech savvy, you can hang out face-to-face with the people who matter most.
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