Whether you're working from home, going to an office or just staying at home until this is over, it's likely that you've either participated in or heard of virtual meeting platforms by now. There are several that are free and they're a great way to stay in touch until we can actually touch again. Here are some of the top virtual meeting platforms that work well for personal visits as well:
Zoom.
Probably the hottest and well known right now. Their free version offers lots of features including recording, screen sharing and custom backgrounds. Meetings of 3+ people are limited to 40 minutes, but you can immediately start a new meeting when your 40 minutes expires.
Zoom is not the only option:
Google Meet:
(Previously Google Hangout). Free video meetings up to 250 people, meet from any device, recording, screen sharing, live stream internal events.
Facetime:
Free app for those with Apple devices. Can talk with multiple people at once with video. No subscriptions necessary.
Microsoft Teams:
Free service designed as a collaborative tool. Basically calls, chats and file sharing. For video meetings and recordings you need the paid service. They seem to have more security in place than some other platforms. Includes video conferencing, chat, recording
Go to Meeting:
Not free, but plans start at $12/month and include video, screen sharing, recording, no time limits, etc.
BlueJeans
:
Starts at $9.99/month and includes up to 50 participants, unlimited meeting time, recording, video, screen sharing and recording.
Just for fun:
H
ouse Party:
Allows up to eight people to video chat and play games at once in a “room.” Users can have infinite rooms and easily float between rooms. Users receive a notification when friends open the app and can join chats with friends (and friends of friends).
While we cannot be together physically, it's still important to maintain our
mental and physical well being
. Phone calls, video meetings and ultimately in-person socially-distanced visits are critical. Stay in touch with others, call your grandparents and older neighbors. Stay safe and healthy!
