HOW TO CALL OVER THE INTERNET?
It took patience when we waited for news from those we love through a letter from the postman… Today, we can talk to each other while seeing each other, and even for free! Our selection of services and tips for using them!
Skype
This service allows you to make free calls between its users, including video. It is also possible to make long distance calls anywhere in the world. To download it, go to skype.com. Once the application has been downloaded, we create an account and add the contacts we want to join. And It Usable on (Windows), Macbook, And iOS and Android devices.
FaceTime
What has made this service so popular is its ease of use and the fact that the app comes preinstalled on Apple phones, tablets and computers. Here too, you can make audio and video calls for free, but only between users of Apple devices. To find it on our phone, just look for it in the toolbar and swipe our screen to the right once the phone has been unlocked. For more info: apple.ca.
Google Duo
This easy-to-use application similar to FaceTime has the advantage of being compatible with Android and iOS devices. Most? The Knock Knock feature, which displays a video preview of the person calling before you go off hook. So don’t forget to smile! Info: duogoogle.com.
Google Hangout
The ideal app for holding a family reunion without traveling: you can video chat with up to 10 people at the same time! This service also allows free telephone calls to a landline or cell phone number anywhere in North America. Info: hangouts.google.com.
Facebook Messenger
Even on Facebook, you can make audio and video calls at no cost! Just click on the camera or phone at the top of the conversation fields: a green dot next to the names of our friends indicates those who are currently online. Info: facebook.com.
Unfortunately, these services are not compatible with each other (you can’t call a Skype user with Messenger, for example), and each requires a different username and password. Other services are popular, especially among younger people, including Viber, WhatsApp and WeChat … So you may be prompted to use another service to communicate online.
Before getting started
• Too shy for a video call? Just leave the camera off!
• The video connection uses much more data than an audio connection: so as not to consume our cellular data, it is better to connect to a wifi network, otherwise we risk exceeding our monthly usage limit.
• Headphones with a microphone will allow us to speak less loudly and to hear better in noisy places.
• When you don’t want to dine alone but don’t have the possibility or the desire to go out of the house either, why not eat with a friend on video?
