6 good alternatives to Zoom

The COVID-19 pandemic has irrevocably shifted the workforce, forcing many professionals to work from home and depend on video-conferencing apps such as Zoom. Zoom has become a highly popular means of keeping in touch with colleagues and friends. But since so many questions came up about Zoom's security, you may be looking for Zoom alternatives. Here is a look at some of the Zoom alternatives.

Skype

You no longer need an account to use Skype. The 'Skype Meet Now' feature allows video conferencing without having signed up for this service. Just a link is needed. But to get more features, you can use the app which is absolutely free. This platform can handle up to 50 people in a video conference and 150 in a group text chat. Skype has also other features like audio and video call recordings that any member can use and save the meetings for up to a month.

Jitsi

It's recently launched to the market that offers multiple video chatting features found in other well-known apps. This open-source platform lets you meet online just by navigating to the site and clicking on the option 'Go'. You can have a public or private chat with up to 75 participants. But try to keep the number of participants up to 35 members for the best experience. Interestingly, it has a feature that gives you the ability to 'kick out' the disobedient members. No more turbulence in the room!

Discord

It is basically a gaming-focused app. But it has a broader appeal as a tool to communicate with colleagues and friends. Thanks to its video conferencing capabilities that can connect you with up to 50 people at once. The limit is generally up to 10 users, which has been raised to 50 users because of the current pandemic. You can host video conferences at no cost. Just sign up on the Discord site or use the app to start your virtual conferences.

Houseparty

There have been numerous rumours regarding the security system of the group chat app Houseparty. However, the rumours are unfounded. This free app is very handy and a good option for the people who just want to have a light time with friends and love to play games, ranging from trivia to comrades. It has a huge collection of interactive games that you can play in pairs and groups. If you've cybersecurity concerns, you just need to head to your settings, enable the private mode, and turn off your location. Use fake names and birth dates for extra security.

Google Meet

Until now, Google Meet (formerly known as Hangouts Meet) was available to the educators or those who pay a subscription fee. But it has made its service free for all Google account holders until 30 September 2020. Individuals can host meetings with 100 participants for up to 24 hours. Google Meet can also handle up to 250-participant meeting if you pay a G suite subscription.

Messenger Rooms

Home video calling platforms have gained popularity amid this lockdown. Facebook has entered this competition with its new feature 'Messenger Rooms'. All you need is a Facebook account. Go to the messenger, click on 'People', and then tap the 'Create a room' option. You can also share the link. If you don't find this option, kindly update your Facebook app. Messenger Rooms can manage up to 50-person meetings. Similar to Houseparty, it has several fun games that you can play with your friends on a group call.