Powerhouse tips to improve your favorite video call app

This article has been updated. Originally published June 1, 2020.

Free video calling apps let you connect face-to-face with anyone, anywhere. Maximize your experience by ensuring a strong connection: use the latest app version, a robust Wi-Fi or cellular network, and close bandwidth-hogging apps. But even with optimal connectivity, these 18 tips will elevate your video calls on Zoom, FaceTime, Google Duo, Skype, Facebook Messenger, and Snapchat.

Zoom Tips

• Perfect Your Appearance: Zoom's video preview (accessible via Settings > Meeting > Always Show Video Preview on mobile, or the cog icon > Video on desktop) lets you check your look and background before joining a call.

• Embrace Virtual Backgrounds: Transform your setting with Zoom's virtual backgrounds (cog icon > Backgrounds & Filters before a call, or More > Virtual Background during a call on iOS). Videos work too!

• Schedule Meetings: Use the Schedule option to ensure everyone's availability and add security features like passcodes and waiting rooms.

FaceTime (Apple Devices Only)

• Wi-Fi Only Calls: Conserve cellular data by disabling FaceTime over cellular in Settings > Cellular > FaceTime.

• Computer Calls: Answer and make calls on your Mac by connecting both devices to the same Wi-Fi, logging into your Apple ID, and enabling Wi-Fi Calling on your iPhone and Calls From iPhone in FaceTime Preferences on your Mac.

• Static Grid View: Disable FaceTime's automatic zoom feature in Settings > FaceTime > Speaking to maintain a consistent grid view during group calls.

Google Duo Tips

• Customize Your Self-View: Adjust the size and position of your video feed during calls by dragging and resizing the video bubble.

• Disable Knock Knock: Save data by turning off Knock Knock (Menu > Settings > Call Settings > Knock Knock) and consider using Data Saving mode.

• Activate Family Mode: Engage doodle and filter features while hiding mute/hang-up buttons for a child-friendly experience (three dots > Family during a call).

Skype Tips

• Automatic Call Answering: Enable automatic call answering in Settings > Calling > Answer incoming calls automatically (desktop: Settings > Calling > Advanced). Optionally, start video automatically.

• Location Sharing: Share your location during or before a call via the Plus button.

• Utilize Subtitles: Enable real-time subtitles and translations in Settings > Calling > Call subtitles.

Facebook Messenger Tips

• One-on-One to Group Calls: Add participants to an existing call using the Add person icon.

• Filters and Effects: Apply filters and effects during a call via the filter and effects buttons that appear when you tap the screen.

• Link-Based Invitations: Create Messenger Rooms and share a link for easy access to video chats.

Snapchat Tips

• Pre-Recorded Video Messages: Send pre-recorded video messages via the camera screen.

• Quick Camera Switching: Double-tap your icon during a call or on the camera screen to switch between front and rear cameras.

• Integrated Text and Pictures: Send texts and pictures during a video call via the chat interface.

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