Introduction
With the advent of superior technologies, video calling has become a common way of communication to people worldwide. Voice calling has also been replaced by video calling, as it creates an opportunity to have face-to-face communication even when people are miles apart. Additionally, it’s more informative as you can gather visual cues from the other person’s body language. This article will show the different ways of making video calls on Android devices, including the necessary requirements and some limitations that users may encounter during the process.
What’s Needed
To make video calls on Android devices, users require smartphones running the Android operating system and a front camera capable of capturing video. Users should also have a stable internet connection using Wi-Fi or mobile data, which should have a higher bandwidth to support clearer video feeds.
What Requires Your Focus?
When making video calls, ensure that there is proper lighting so that both parties can see each other clearly. Having a clean background is also vital to avoid distractions. Make adjustments in lighting and camera angles, if necessary, before initiating the call.
Different Methods to Do Video Call on Android
Method 1: Using Google Duo
Google Duo is an Android app that allows video calls between Android devices. It is user-friendly, supports high-quality video, and is free to use.
Steps:
1. Download Google Duo from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and sign in using your Google account.
3. Allow the app to access your microphone, camera, and contacts.
4. Select a contact you want to video call and tap on the video icon.
5. Wait for the other person to answer the call.
Pros: User-friendly interface, high-quality video, free to use.
Cons: Both users need to have the app installed on their Android devices.
Method 2: Using WhatsApp
WhatsApp is a messaging app that allows video calling on both Android and iOS devices. It is user-friendly, has an end-to-end encryption security feature, and supports high-quality video.
Steps:
1. Open WhatsApp and select a contact you want to make a video call.
2. Tap on the video icon to initiate the call.
3. Wait for the other person to answer the call.
Pros: Free to use, end-to-end encryption security feature, supports high-quality video calls.
Cons: The quality of the call may decrease if the internet connection is poor.
Method 3: Using Skype
Skype is a popular platform that allows users to make video and audio calls, send messages, and share files. It is available on multiple platforms, including Android devices. It has a simple user interface, supports high-quality video, and offers screen sharing feature.
Steps:
1. Download and install Skype from the Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and sign in to your account.
3. Select a contact you want to call.
4. Tap on the video icon to start the video call.
5. Wait for the other person to answer the call.
Pros: Available on multiple platforms, simple user interface, supports high-quality video, offers screen sharing feature.
Cons: May require a Microsoft account to use all features.
Method 4: Using Facebook Messenger
Facebook Messenger is a messaging app that also enables video calling between two or more people. It is user-friendly, free to use, and supports high-quality video.
Steps:
1. Download and install Facebook Messenger from Google Play Store.
2. Open the app and sign in using your Facebook account.
3. Select a contact you want to call.
4. Tap on the video icon to initiate the video call.
5. Wait for the other person to answer the call.
Pros: User-friendly interface, high-quality audio and video, free to use on a stable internet connection.
Cons: Needs a Facebook account, may affect the phone’s battery life.
Why Can’t I Do Video Call on Android?
1. Poor internet connection – This is the most common reason why some Android users cannot make video calls. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection to initiate a video call.
2. Disabled Camera and Microphone Permissions – Ensure that permissions for the camera and microphone are enabled for the video call app you’re using.
3. Unsupported Devices – Some Android devices are not compatible with some video call apps. Ensure the device can support the app before installation.
Implications and Recommendations
It’s recommended to use Wi-Fi when making a video call to avoid data charges. To improve video quality, it’s essential to have proper lighting, have a clean background, and avoid multi-tasking when on a video call. Android users may also consider using a selfie stick for more natural camera angles.
Video Tutorial:
5 FAQs about Video Calling on Android
Q1: How do I know if my Android device is compatible with video calling apps?
A: Check the device’s specifications and ensure that it supports the app before installing. Alternatively, check the video call app’s website to verify the supported devices.
Q2: Can I make international video calls using video call apps on Android?
A: Yes, users can make international video calls using video call apps, but ensure that the internet connection is stable and fast enough to support the call.
Q3: Can someone record my video calls without my knowledge?
A: Some apps can record video calls. However, they’ll notify the user that the call is being recorded. Ensure that the app doesn’t have any suspicious permissions before installation to avoid such a situation.
Q4: Do I need to use a front camera to make video calls?
A: Yes, a front camera is needed to make video calls as it sends your video to the receiver.
Q5: Can I make group video calls on Android devices?
A: Yes, some video call apps support group video calls on Android devices. Check the app requirements before installation.
In Conclusion
Making video calls on Android devices has never been easier with the different available video call apps. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection and proper lighting before making a video call for better video quality. With video calls, you can have face-to-face communication even when miles apart, making communication more informative and engaging.