Alternative to Skype?

[HandyMac]

A friend does consultations with people using Skype, which he doesn't like (a common feeling I gather) and would like to replace. I've never used Skype, and know next to nothing about it. Some of his clients are on Macs, so could use FaceTime? But others are on Windows; what could he use with them? Nothing complicated, just needs video and audio. Any suggestions?

 

[GGJstudios]

I've used Skype for many years, but in recent years I've found it to be less effective than other tools. For one-on-one audio and video, I prefer WhatsApp. For group audio and video calls, I currently use appear.in which is free for up to 4 users. It's web-based, so it's OS-independent, and also has an iPhone and Android app. I've been pleased with it, so far.

 

[Yvan256]

Skype was bought by Microsoft and it's kind of the default videoconferencing app on that platform now, like FaceTime on Macs.

So I would suggest, if he also has a Mac, to use FaceTime for his clients with Macs and continue using Skype for his clients on Windows. Otherwise he would ned to ask his clients to install additional third-party software and some of them might not want to do that.

 

[MacGizmo]

Google Hangout is probably going to be the easiest, most universal solution. Works on every platform. Simple to use. Let's face it, almost everyone has a Google Account (or can easily get one for the purpose of video conferencing) to start a call, or you can even participate without a Google Account. If you have Gmail, you have Google Hangout.

I hate Google, and most of their products/services, but they really kind of nailed it with Hangouts.

 

[neutrino23]

If he can spend a little money he could look at things like fuze.com or similar.

 

[ncrypt]

You could try StarLeaf, it's free to video call other people and it's pretty reliable (and free!)

https://www.starleaf.com

 

[HandyMac]

Thanks for the suggestions and tips, everyone; we'll check them out.

 

[loby]

“Zoom” Check it out.