With the advent of new television technologies, a large number of consumers are now looking for ways to integrate their televisions with the functions they already have in their home. TV streaming has become so popular and yet it is not without its flaws. Video chat becomes an easy solution as long as you can use your smartphone or laptop on wifi range near your TV set but what if this doesn’t work?
Video calling devices for tv are not a new concept. They allow you to video chat on your TV. There are many different brands, but the most popular one is Logitech’s Revue. Read more in detail here: video calling devices for tv.
Video conferencing and video chat software and platforms have been available for quite some time.
However, they have only lately become indispensable.
Video chat programs have become a cornerstone of our sanity in the post-COVID-19 era, supporting both professional and social contacts.
Most people use their cellphones to video chat and conference, which isn’t always optimal. Video conferencing on phones has a number of drawbacks:
- The camera looms near to your face since you’re holding the phone, and it looks fairly odd… Consider all of your grandparents’ obnoxious video chat shots.
- If you hold the camera at a distance, an extension of your arm will always be visible on the screen.
- When doing a conference call, video chatting through cellphones becomes much more complicated. The screen of a smartphone is already rather tiny. When it’s divided into smaller displays to accommodate everyone, you can hardly see anybody without squinting.
That’s why you should start using your TV displays for video chats and conference calls!
Chatting with friends, family, and coworkers on a huge TV screen will be much more comfortable since you’ll be able to see everyone on the conference call clearly and won’t have to hold the TV at arm’s length!
But how can you video conference and video chat on a TV?
When video calling on TV, there are two things to keep in mind:
1. Platform or device type: Smart TV, Fire Stick (Amazon), Xbox 360, smartphone screen casting, and so on.
2. App: Any app that you use on your smartphone, such as FaceTime, Zoom, and so on.
In this post, we’ll go through all of the numerous ways you may use your TV to video chat and conference.
Platforms and Devices for Video Conferencing and Video Chat on TV
Consider the platforms and devices when deciding how you’ll video chat on your TV. The following is a list of the many platforms and devices you may use to video chat or have a conference on your television.
Option 1: A Smart TV with a Camera Built-In
Getting a Smart TV with an inbuilt web camera is the simplest and most convenient method to video chat or conference on your TV.
Most Smart TVs with webcams come with a video chat application pre-installed. As a result, all you need to do is locate the app on your Smart TV, log in, and begin video chatting. The built-in web camera will recognize you right away and enable you to video chat. There are no wires to connect, no third-party devices to utilize, and no extra cameras to purchase.
Prior to June 2016, many Smart TVs with built-in cameras came with a Skype application pre-installed. Panasonic’s TC-PVT60 is one such device. It included a pop-up camera with facial recognition, as well as Skype, which allowed for a simple video conference. Aside from Panasonic, Sony, LG, Toshiba, and a slew of other brands offered identical TVs.
Unfortunately, Microsoft chose to discontinue support for Skype for TVs in June 2016, thereby eliminating the software for anybody who purchased one. In the viewpoint of owners of more expensive televisions, this is a very controversial move. Since July 1, 2016, the TV Skype app has been unavailable on their televisions. The narrative comes to a close.
As previously said, the most significant disadvantage of Smart TVs with built-in cameras is their exorbitant price. While Smart TVs have grown commonplace, Smart TVs with built-in cameras are still uncommon. Generally, smart TVs with built-in cameras cost hundreds of dollars. Furthermore, most consumers aren’t motivated to replace their current television set with a Smart TV that includes a camera.
Smart TVs with Built-In Cameras: Pros and Cons
Pros:
- You do not need to buy any extra equipment.
- There is no need to connect to other devices.
- Because people can use a video chat app with a single button, it’s ideal for grandparents or individuals who are technologically impaired.
Cons:
- Smart TVs with built-in cameras are quite expensive.
- If you already own a television set, you’ll need to upgrade to a Smart TV. As a result, most individuals who merely want to utilize their gadgets won’t be able to employ this strategy.
Option 2: TV with a webcam
| Amazon has a selection of the top Web cameras for your TV. |
You may buy a separate web camera for your Smart TV if it doesn’t have an inbuilt camera. You may get a Smart TV camera that is compatible with the brand and model of your television. Video chat and conferencing programs come pre-installed on most Smart TV web cams. As a result, after you’ve connected the web camera to your current TV, all you have to do now is open your video chat software and start chatting to your friends and family.
Portal TV on Facebook
| Amazon has the greatest deal on Facebook Portal TV. |
Facebook Portal TV is a Facebook-designed smart web camera for your television. Portal TV, like other TV web cams, must be installed over your current TV and linked via HDMI cable. By far the greatest choice for a TV webcam is Facebook Portal.
The following are some of the highlights of Facebook Portal TV:
- Smart Sound and Smart Camera To guarantee excellent visibility, employ automated pan and zoom functions to follow you and broaden the screen. The camera follows you around the room, focusing on you and reducing background noise.
- Video calls to your friends’ Facebook or WhatsApp accounts are simple to make.
- Portal TV may also be used as an Alexa device. As a result, you may use voice commands to start video conversations and conduct other Alexa operations like playing music.
- When you’re not on the phone, Portal TV turns your TV into a screensaver with your Facebook and Instagram photographs.
- You may use the camera’s augmented reality capabilities to add music, animation, and AR effects. As a result, you may make entertaining live tales and animations for your kids.
- It also includes several entertaining AR-based games to play while video chatting.
- You may record movies and photographs, edit them, add amusing effects and filters, and then post them on Facebook or Instagram.
Facebook Portal TV is also very simple to set up. The following is a rundown on how to set up Portal TV:
- Mount Portal TV on top of your current TV or on a surface directly underneath it. Keep it away from the speakers.
- Connect the HDMI cable to the TV and the power adapter to the power source.
- Turn on your TV and follow the onscreen instructions to link your remote with Portal TV.
- Connect to your home’s WiFi network after selecting the language.
- Portal TV is available for download and installation.
- Follow the onscreen prompts and instructions to connect your Facebook and WhatsApp accounts to Portal TV.
- Add your preferred contacts to complete the setup.
- When making a call, you have the option of using your voice or the touchscreen controls. Simply say, “Hey Portal, Call [name of contact]” if you’re using your voice. Go to Home > Contacts > Call if you’re using the onscreen controls.
Another great feature added to Facebook’s Portal TV, Portal Plus, and Portal Mini lately is the option to utilize the Zoom App natively. Despite the fact that Facebook already has its own video calling software built in, the inclusion of Zoom makes video conferencing more convenient.
Zoom’s ability to connect to a variety of devices, including PCs, smartphones, and compatible smart TVs, making it simpler to connect with people. You may now have a video conference with other Zoom users without the usage of any other devices outside your Portal TV. You can have more dynamic Zoom meetings with Portal TV’s auto pan and focus camera.
You’ll need an active Zoom account to install Zoom on your Facebook Portal device. If you don’t already have one, you can make one on their registration website for free.
It’s as easy as heading to your Portal TV’s Portal App page and looking for the Zoom app to get Zoom on your portal device. Sign in using your Zoom account to activate the app on your Portal device after it’s been installed. If you’re installing Zoom on your own, after you’ve logged in, the procedure should be completed automatically. If your firm has provided you with a room, you may enter it by selecting it from the menu.
Setting a lock passcode on the Zoom app on your Portal TV is also vital to prevent unauthorized usage while you’re not looking at the screen. Zoom will ask for a passcode after you’ve checked in to your account for the first time. You may input this code now by selecting Screen Lock, or you can skip it and do it later.
You may set auto-lock to activate after a particular duration of inactivity after the passcode has been entered. You’ll have to manually lock Zoom anytime you leave the room if you don’t do so. Follow these steps to enable auto-lock:
- Tap Settings in the lower right corner of the Zoom page.
- Select Auto Lock Screen after Inactivity from the menu.
- Select the amount of time you want Zoom to remain locked after inactivity.
- Choose Never if you want to manually lock Zoom each time.
- Save is the last option.
- Now you should be able to configure the auto-lock options.
Go to the Portal Home screen to enable manual screen lock. There should be a lock symbol in the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. This will lock the smartphone if you tap it.
TV Cam by Logitech
| On Amazon, you can get the greatest deal on a Logitech camera. |
The Logitech TV Cam is a web camera that uses a clasp method to connect to your current television.
The following are some of the characteristics of TV Cam:
- This web camera has an HDMI input and can record HD movies.
- It used to come with Skype and Wi-Fi pre-installed for video conversations on your TV without the usage of any additional devices. Microsoft discontinued supporting Skype for TVs in June 2016, stopping Logitech TV Cam and other similar devices from taking use of this feature.
- If you prefer a connected connection, the camera also has an Ethernet connector.
- The lens on this web camera is wide-angle.
- When you get a call, the built-in ringer alerts you.
- Voice clarity and noise reduction are ensured by four microphones.
FHD Webcam by AUKEY
| On Amazon, get the lowest price for the AUKEY FHD Webcam. |
The AUKEY FHD Webcam might be the perfect solution for anybody seeking for a low-cost approach to transform their TV into a video chatting platform. First and foremost, while streaming video, it gives a clear and stable picture, and it is also compatible with the most popular streaming applications available today.
The video resolution at which a camera delivers the material it takes is the most essential attribute. The AUKEY FHD Webcam matches the Logitech TV Cam in this scenario, with a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This camera has a fixed focus lens that provides a sharp picture even at distances of up to five meters (16 ft).
The two-megapixel 1/2.9″ CMOS image sensor outputs a 1080p stream at 30 frames per second, which is more than adequate for any kind of video chat. Even while video chatting in poorly lit situations, your video will appear great because to the sensor’s decent light sensitivity.
In terms of audio, the AUKEY FHD Webcam has two built-in stereo microphones. The two widely spread microphones, which have an outside design similar to the Logitech TV Cam, are capable of relaying your speech as clearly as if you were standing next to the individuals you’re talking to.
The technique of connecting this camera to your television is quite straightforward. Once you’ve plugged the camera into a USB port on your TV, use the included clip to secure it to the top border of the screen. Because there are no drivers to install, the camera is ready to use as soon as you attach it to the television.
Of course, the camera may also be used with a laptop or computer display. In addition, you may use the camera’s clip to mount the webcam on a desk or any other flat surface. You shouldn’t be concerned if you intend to use the AUKEY FHD Webcam with your computer or laptop since it is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Android operating systems.
Finally, while utilizing a camera on your TV, it’s critical to understand which video conferencing programs you may use it with. Fortunately, the AUKEY FHD Webcam is compatible with all of the most popular chat apps:
- Skype
- Zoom
- Google Hangouts is a service that allows you to communicate with others
- YouTube
- OBS
Kraydel Konnect is a collaboration between Kraydel and Krayde
Kraydel Konnect is one of the most straightforward ways to video chat with people on your television. The Konnect Hub with Camera, the Konnect Processing Unit, and the Konnect Remote are the three devices that make up Konnect.
The following are some of the characteristics of Kraydel Konnect:
- Different Konnect devices, such as mobile phones, web browsers, and other Konnect TVs, may be used to make video calls.
- The Konnect user interface is really straightforward.
- When you get a call, Konnect notifies you on your TV and mobile device.
- Motion, ambient temperature, light, and sound are all detected by Konnect. As a result, it adjusts the visual output for the best video conference quality.
It’s quite simple to use after you’ve installed all of the Konnect devices. In fact, it was created to keep grandparents linked to the rest of their family — albeit you may need to help them set up the gadget.
Kraydel Konnect, on the other hand, has one fundamental flaw. You can only use it to make video calls to other Konnect devices. There are no third-party programs pre-installed. As a result, if you buy it for your grandparents, you’ll have to buy it for everyone else they wish to contact as well.
Here’s a brief rundown on how to use Kraydel Konnect to make video calls:
- Connect the Konnect Hub to your TV and adjust the angle of the camera.
- Using the USB and HDMI cords, connect the Hub to the Processing Unit and your TV.
- Connect the power supply socket to the Processing Unit.
- Connect the device to your Wi-Fi and set up your account by following the on-screen directions.
- The Konnect remote is quite easy to use. The video chat menu appears when you hit the heart button on the remote. The arrow buttons may be used to cycle among the choices, and the relevant button can be used to pick Yes or No options.
- Tap the ‘Yes’ button when the option ‘Make a Video Call’ appears.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Purchasing Web Cameras
Pros:
- You may turn any TV into a Smart TV with video calling by installing the web camera’s gadget.
- After you’ve installed the web camera, using the video calling capabilities is a breeze.
- Because the camera was created primarily for video chats, the video quality is exceptional.
Cons:
- The majority of web cams are rather pricey.
- While they turn your television into a Smart TV, they only enable you to make basic video calls.
- The majority of them are not worth your money.
- Some of them, such as Kraydel, bind you to a certain habitat. As a result, you can only use them for video calls if the rest of your network does as well.
- Even if the web camera doesn’t lock you into a specific ecosystem, it generally only has a small number of third-party apps that work with it.
Option 3: Television + Television Camera + Third-Party Devices
Do you wish to use a variety of video call platforms to video contact your friends, family, and coworkers? People are no longer limited to just one or even two video calling services. Some members of your family may favor WhatsApp, while others may prefer another comparable program. Your coworkers could choose to talk on Zoom, while your pals might want to meet together in Houseparty.
As a result, a web camera may not be enough, and you may need to use third-party devices that are compatible with such apps. Blu-ray players, Chromecast, and other devices that allow third-party video call and conference software should all be thoroughly investigated. It’s also worth noting that adding a third-party gadget plus a webcam to your current TV will be costly. As a result, this should only be considered if you already own a third-party device.
Player for Blu-ray
Blu-ray players are devices that play Blu-ray films, DVDs, and CDs for a low cost. While Blu-ray players are often used to play movies, some of them may also come with a video calling program pre-installed. A Blu-ray player with built-in Skype compatibility is the Panasonic DMP-BDT220. Unfortunately, Microsoft discontinued Skype for TVs support in June 2016, rendering the functionality outdated. Someone attempting to sell you a Skype-enabled BR player could find this information handy.
We would not recommend buying a Blu-ray player only for the purpose of video conferencing. Blu-ray players are rather limited since Blu-ray discs are seldom used these days, and they don’t provide a lot of capability. You may, however, utilize a Blu-ray player with a video calling capability in conjunction with your TV and web camera if you already have one.
Pros:
Cons:
- Because of the restricted capability, buying a Blu-ray for the express purpose of video chatting isn’t a good idea.
- A web camera will still need to be purchased separately.
Xbox One
As you may know, the Xbox One is a video game system. But, although the Xbox One is first and foremost a gaming system, it is also much more.
Because it can play DVDs, CDs, and Blu-ray discs, the Xbox One may also be used as a Blu-ray player. You can also play all of the newest video games on Xbox One, as well as stream entertainment from Netflix, YouTube, HBO, and other services.
Above all, the Xbox One comes with Skype pre-installed and a separate Kinect sensor that can be used as a TV camera. As a result, you may use Skype and other video calling apps to video call friends and family utilizing the Xbox One and the Kinect sensor connected to your TV.
The main benefit of utilizing an Xbox One is that it can be used for a variety of purposes other than video chatting and video gaming.
Pros:
- If you already own an Xbox One, you can use Skype to make video chats with ease. Because the Xbox One comes with a Kinect sensor, you won’t need to buy one.
- It has a lot of features in addition to video calling. You may watch videos and play video games.
- You may use a variety of applications to make video calls.
Cons:
- It’s pricey, which is why you shouldn’t buy it only to use it for video calls.
- The gadget isn’t the most user-friendly.
Xbox 360
You may also use your Xbox 360 to make video calls. However, you should not buy an Xbox 360 only for the sake of video chatting with others. Skype and other third-party video calling software are not compatible with the Xbox 360.
If you want to make a video call with your Xbox 360, you’ll need the Kinect Sensor, which comes with the system. You’ll need to install the Xbox 360 and connect the Kinect Sensor to your TV. After that, you may use the Kinect Sensor camera to make video calls to those who have the same device as you. As a result, if you already own an Xbox 360, you’ll be able to converse with those who own a Kinect Sensor.
Pros:
- Because the Xbox 360 has a Kinect sensor, you can video call pals who also have an Xbox 360.
- There’s no need to buy a separate web camera.
Cons:
- The Kinect sensor is unique to the Kinect environment. As a result, you can only video call those who have Kinect, limiting its use.
- For video calls, it’s not worth it.
PlayStation 3 is a game console that was released in
Another video game system having a video call feature is the PlayStation 3. To utilize the PlayStation 3’s video call function, you’ll need the following:
- The PlayStation 3 is a video game system.
- The PlayStation Eye, the console’s built-in web camera, must be purchased separately.
- For communication, you’ll need a microphone or a headset.
- Account on the PlayStation Network.
You may video contact your pals who also have a PlayStation Network account after you’ve completed all of the prerequisites. You may start a chat session with one of your friends from the menu. You may video contact them using the PlayStation Eye attached to your TV after they accept your chat request.
Pros:
- If you already own a PlayStation 3, you’ll simply need to buy an inexpensive PlayStation Eye to make video calls to your buddies.
- Beyond video chats, the PlayStation 3 has a lot of utility and entertainment value. You may also play video games and stream content.
Cons:
- Only friends with PlayStation accounts with PlayStation Eye will be able to video call you.
- PlayStation Eye is not included with the game system and must be purchased separately.
- Only individuals who already own a PlayStation game machine are eligible.
- Using the PlayStation 3 to video contact others is difficult and time consuming.
Amazon Fire Stick
| Amazon has the greatest deal on the Amazon Fire Stick. |
The Amazon Fire Stick is one of the most cost-effective ways to turn a conventional TV into a smart TV. It’s one of the most popular Smart TV gadgets, and it allows you access to a huge number of apps, including Skype and other video-calling apps like Video Call and Just Talk.
It’s worth noting that Microsoft’s decision to discontinue supporting Skype in 2016 has no bearing on the Fire TV Stick. The reason for this is because it utilizes the Skype app for Android rather than the TV-specific software.
You must connect the Fire Stick to the HDMI port on your television. You may browse through hundreds of programs after inserting the Fire Stick device. You may use apps like Netflix to stream material, Amazon Music to listen to music, and Skype to make video calls.
The Amazon Fire Stick, on the other hand, does not have a web camera. As a result, you’ll need to invest in one of the web cams we described before. You may install Skype or any other video call program once you’ve installed the web camera and the Fire Stick.
Pros:
- The Amazon Fire Stick is quite inexpensive.
- It allows you to use a variety of video calling programs.
- You may also use the Fire Stick to watch videos, play games, listen to music, and so on.
- Alexa is included inside the Amazon Fire Stick, allowing you to operate it with your voice.
Cons:
Option 4: Using a SmartPhone, Tablet, or Laptop to Cast and Mirror to Your TV
Casting is when you use your phone, tablet, or laptop to wirelessly stream material or conduct video chats, and then cast that content to your TV. As a result, you may use your smartphone to make a video call and then cast it to your TV. You may utilize the camera on your laptop, tablet, or phone instead of installing a separate web camera on your TV. The techniques listed below are some of the most common for casting video calls from a smartphone to a television.
Casting for Video and Television (Phone or Tablet)
Video & TV Cast is one of the most popular programs for casting the screen of your smartphone or tablet to your television.
You will, however, need the following in order to utilize this application:
A quick rundown of how Video & TV Cast works is as follows:
- On your phone, download the Video & TV Cast app.
- Join the same Wi-Fi network as your phone and Smart TV.
- You may use any video calling program, such as Skype, WhatsApp Call, Zoom, and so on.
- Keep your finger on the ‘Tap Here to Cast’ button.
- Your video call will be shown on your television.
- Enjoy the video call by adjusting the camera angle on your phone or tablet.
Chromecast is a Google product that allows you to transmit video
Google Chromecast is a gadget that enables you to cast video calls and entertainment on your TV screen using your phone, laptop, or tablet as a remote control. As a result, you may use any video calling program from the Google Play Store, including WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype, and others.
To use Google Chromecast to make video calls, you’ll need the following:
- HDMI port on the television.
- Chromecast is a Google gadget.
- Google Home must be installed on a compatible smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Here’s a quick rundown of how Google Chromecast works:
- For electricity, connect the USB power cord to your Chromecast.
- Use the HDMI connector on your TV to connect your Google Chromecast.
- Connect to your home’s WiFi network and watch TV.
- The Welcome screen will appear.
- Make sure your Bluetooth is switched on and follow the on-screen steps on your device.
- You’ll be prompted to choose a device to configure. Select the Chromecast device and double-check the number shown on your screen.
- Check to see whether your Chromecast is on the same WiFi network as your laptop, phone, or tablet.
- Your Chromecast is now ready to use.
- To cast the video call to your TV, open any video call app and pick the Chromecast option for your TV.
AirPlay
Apple gadgets, such as iPhones, iPads, Macbooks, and Apple TVs, include a built-in capability called AirPlay. AirPlay enables you to stream video and share a screen with Apple TVs or smart TVs that support AirPlay 2, such as the Samsung FHD/HD 4, 5 Series, Samsung The Serif Series, and others.
You may cast video calls from any iOS-compatible app to your TV screen using AirPlay. AirPlay is the greatest solution for individuals who only have Apple devices, but it is not compatible with Android or Windows.
To use AirPlay to make video calls, you’ll need the following:
Here’s a quick rundown of how AirPlay works:
- Connect your Apple TV or AirPlay 2-compatible SmartTV to the same WiFi network as your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- To utilize a video call, go to the program you wish to use.
- Choose your TV by tapping the AirPlay icon.
- Your video call is now being shown on your television.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Screencasting
Pros:
- You may utilize the camera on your smartphone, tablet, or computer instead of buying a TV web camera.
- When it comes to the video call application, you have a lot of alternatives. All other settings are limited by the Smart TV or third-party device’s application library. You may video call on your TV using any app accessible on your smartphone or computer screen if you’re casting your smartphone or computer screen.
- The majority of individuals can take use of this option without having to invest in pricey third-party gadgets.
Cons:
- Casting a video screen requires a level of technological expertise that most people lack. It’s not the most user-friendly choice.
- A SmartTV or a TV with a suitable third-party device, such as Google Chromecast, Apple TV, or Fire Stick, is still required.
- Casting video screens to your TV and conducting video calls use a significant amount of bandwidth and data. As a result, if your Wi-Fi speed isn’t optimal, you may suffer some lags and delays while using them together.
Apps for Video Conferencing and Video Chat
You’ll need to utilize specific software regardless of the technique you use to video call on your TV. Think of it as roads and cars: the “highways” are the techniques and devices indicated in the preceding section, while the “vehicles” are the video chat and conference applications you use on those “highways.”
As a result, even after deciding the device combination to utilize, you’ll need to work out which application would best fit your needs. You may not have many alternatives in such circumstances. Many SmartTVs and third-party gadgets only provide one or two possibilities. If you’re casting your phone or computer to the TV, though, you have a lot of options.
The following is a quick rundown of some of the most popular video chat and conference applications, as well as compatibility information.
1. Skype
One of the oldest and most dependable video calling services is Microsoft’s Skype. Skype also contains ordinary talking functions, but it’s mostly a video calling tool that succeeds at what it does. With a free Skype account, you may make one-on-one video chats for up to four hours every session and a total of 100 hours per month. For most casual users, this is sufficient. You’ll need a Skype premium subscription if you wish to prolong those hours or have conference video conversations with many individuals. You may video call up to ten people at once if you have a premium subscription.
Platforms that are supported include:
- Mac, Windows, Linux DEB, Linux RPM, and Linux SNAP are all examples of computers.
- iPhone, Android, and Windows 10 phones
- iPad, Android, Kindle Fire HD, and Windows 10 tablets
- Xbox One, Amazon Alexa, and Fire TV Stick are some of the other platforms available.
- TVs: As of June 2016, Skype no longer supported TVs (or Blu-ray players).
2. Zoom
Because of its high reliability and excellent web integration, Zoom is presently one of the most popular video call and conference tools for enterprises. Zoom is popular among businesses because it offers a broad variety of web conferencing and collaboration tools, including scheduled messaging, screen sharing with others, whiteboarding, and co-annotation, among others. You may not only video call each other using Zoom, but you can also share your computer displays for demonstrations. Meetings with 100 people are allowed with a free Zoom account, but they are limited to 40 minutes. You may also choose from the premium Pro, Business, or Enterprise options, depending on the size of your company or organization. However, the most serious problem with Zoom is a slew of security and privacy issues around the selling of personal information.
Platforms that are supported include:
- Windows 10, Windows XP SP3+, Windows Vista SP1+, Windows 7, Windows 8, Ubuntu 12.04+, Mint 17.1+, Linux 6.4+, Oracle Linux 6.4+, CentOS 6.4+, Fedora 21+, OpenSUSE 13.2+, and ArchLinux 64-bit
- Phones: iOS 7.0 and above, Android 4.0 and up
- iPadOS 13+, Android 4.0x+, Kindle Fire HD, and Surface Pro 2+ tablets
- Amazon Alexa and other platforms
3. Make use of FaceTime
FaceTime is the greatest video calling software for those who are part of the Apple ecosystem. It’s only accessible on Apple devices since it’s an Apple application. It does, however, enable you to make FaceTime video calls to any of your contacts who have an Apple device. You may video call up to 32 people at once for no extra charge with Group FaceTime.
Platforms that are supported include:
4. The WhatsApp Messenger application
WhatsApp is one of the most widely used instant messaging services. WhatsApp offers a limited video call functionality since it isn’t designed for video calls. A maximum of four individuals may be video called at the same time. The group video call, on the other hand, is easy to start. You may form a four-person group and use the video call feature. You may also call one of your contacts and then add three more people. While WhatsApp’s video calling function is quite poor, it compensates for this by being widely accessible, since practically everyone uses the app.
Platforms that are supported include:
- Android 4.0.3+, iOS 9+, and KaiOS 2.5.1+ phones
Google Duo is the fifth option.
Google Duo is the company’s native video calling app. You can make high-quality video calls using your phone, tablet, computer, or connected smart display. Unlike other video call solutions, Google Duo is just for video and audio calls. You have the option of making video/voice calls or sending video/voice messages. However, you are unable to send text messages. Up to 12 individuals may participate in group video calls and conferences.
Platforms that are supported include:
- Android 4.1+ and iOS 9.0+ phones
- Google Home Hub, Lenovo Smart Display, and JBL Link View are some of the other platforms available.
6. Get-together at home
Houseparty is a “facility for face-to-face social networking.” It’s a video call program intended for usage by a group of friends rather than for formal purposes. You may have group video calls with numerous individuals using Houseparty. You may also play a variety of party games inside the program. As a result, Houseparty is the ideal video call tool for socializing with friends while maintaining social distance.
Platforms that are supported include:
7. Video Conferencing with Slack
Slack is a popular internet communication platform for workstations. It enables you to establish groups and tasks for various people within your organization. You may connect with several users at the same time using Slack video conference, and you can also share your screen to display what you’re working on.
Platforms that are supported include:
Google Hangouts is number eight.
Google Hangouts is another Google tool that many workplaces and offices utilize for video conferencing and group conversations. Google Hangouts, on the other hand, isn’t that popular, and it never really got off the ground.
Platforms that are supported include:
Join.Me is number nine on the list.
You may start or join a meeting using Join.Me, a video conferencing and meeting platform. After you’ve started a meeting, you may distribute the link for a set time and invite your workers to participate through that link. Screen sharing capabilities are also included in the software, allowing you to show on your computer by sharing the screen. It also features a whiteboard option where you can draw diagrams and pictures to illustrate concepts. Furthermore, the presenter may be swapped so that various persons can present at different times throughout the meeting.
Platforms that are supported include:
- Mac OS X 10.10+ and Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and 10 computers
- iOS 10.0+ and Android 5.0+ on phones and tablets
BlueJeans (#10)
BlueJeans is a digital workstation video conferencing and screen sharing tool. You may use this software to host video conferences, group discussions, individual video chats, event live streaming, and meetings. You may also share your screen with others to do presentations and use a variety of other professional tools. There is no free version, however the regular edition may accommodate up to 50 people.
Platforms that are supported include:
- Mac, Windows, Linux (RPM), and Linux are all examples of computers (DEB)
- iOS 11.0+ and Android 6.0+ are required for phones and tablets.
GoToMeeting (#11)
GoToMeeting is a web-based meeting, video conferencing, and screen-sharing software. It enables you to attend meetings quickly from any device. With a variety of techniques to improve participation, you can convert your conferences into engaging collaboration hubs. Depending on the bundle you choose, the application may have anywhere from 150 to 3,000 users. As a result, it’s a highly scalable platform for huge businesses.
Platforms that are supported include:
- Mac OS X 10.9+, Windows 7+, Linux/Ubuntu, and Google Chrome OS are all supported on computers.
- iOS 11.0+ and Android 5.0+ on phones and tablets
Conclusion
As you can see, you have a lot of alternatives when it comes to video conferences and conference calls with friends, family, and coworkers on your television.
Using a Smart TV with an embedded camera or purchasing a web camera for your TV is the simplest and most cost-effective method to video call on TV. If you have a Smart TV or a Smart TV device like the Amazon Fire Stick, you may cast the screen of your phone or laptop to your TV without spending any money.
I hope that this post has shown all of the many ways to video call on TV. Keep yourself safe and enjoy your social distancing!
Watch This Video-
If you are looking for a way to video chat on your TV, the “whatsapp video call on tv” is a great option. You can use any device that has an internet connection and a webcam to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you video chat from a TV?
A: Yes, you can video chat from a TV with Google Home.
How do you video call on a smart TV?
A: If you have a smart TV that is able to do video calling, the answer would be video call.
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