Video Chat On Facebook | Update

In case you haven't heard, there's definitely a war taking place between Facebook and Google - and its only just started. With all the recent buzz and also buzz going around the Internet regarding Google+, Facebook determined that they had to act to obtain back into the spotlight; so they have actually now partnered with Skype to bring its customers video calling - Video Chat On Facebook.

This indicates that you as well as any of your friends could see each other in person using your web cams and also chat using your voice. Seeing that Google+ simply came on the scene with their video chatting feature called Hangouts, this "new" feature on Facebook seems rather unimaginative. Yet, Facebook's video calling feature is really pretty impressive as well as functions a little bit in a different way.

If you resemble me, a lot of your non-tech savvy family members as well as non-geeky friends have actually not also heard of Google+; if they have heard about it, greater than likely they're not going to try it out. To ensure that indicates you're stuck still using Facebook as well as may as well welcome the new features (since there will most definitely be even more ahead in this war) with open arms.

Video Chat On Facebook

Let's have a look at the best ways to allow as well as make use of Facebook's brand-new video chat.

Getting going

Prior to you could start video calling your friends, you will certainly should allow it. This can be done by mosting likely to the Facebook Video Calling page and also clicking the green "Get Started" button. You'll then be prompted to download and run the Java application had to use this feature. Don't worry, this is a really fast process.

Keep in mind: The alternative to use this brand-new attribute is not available for every person. When I asked my other half to see the page, he was unable to see the green switch. It stated that the attribute had not been yet readily available to him. In this instance you'll need somebody that can access the function to initiate a video call with you. From there, they'll be motivated to install and run the Java application.

The best ways to Call A Friend

There are two means to call your friends.

First Method

You can enter into a conversation window as well as click on the camera symbol from the top bar of the home window. This technique lets you call any of your friends.

If they have not made it possible for the attribute, they'll be motivated to do so. If they typically aren't on-line, you'll be able to leave them a video message.

Second Technique

The various other method is by clicking the "call" switch on your friend's profile web page. The "call" switch will certainly appear right next to the message switch, in the top right of their account web page.

If you happen to call them and also they're offline, you'll have the ability to leave a video message.

Keep in mind: The "call" switch will only show up if you're signed right into Facebook chat and if that friend has the highlighted allowed. So if you don't see a call button, you'll need to make use of the very first technique to ensure that they'll be motivated to make it possible for the function.

Setup and Quality

The quality of the video chat is pretty outstanding. I've attempted Google+ Hangouts also and I need to admit that the high quality of the camera was not nearly as clear as Facebook's video calls. There also just weren't nearly as many "hiccups" (i.e. home window freezing or hold-ups).

If you've done a video chat in Skype, after that you'll acknowledge the arrangement; there is a small window in the leading right edge of the main home window so that you could see on your own. When you're finished with a phone call, you could just shut the home window to finish it.

Here is the camera sight without the controls. The home window can be bigger, but this is the tiniest dimension. Also at complete display view, the top quality stayed exceptional.

Below is the camera view with the controls. While I am creating this on Windows, I did test out the function on the Mac OS. So, your home window could look a little various from mine. The only option available right here is to transform the source of your microphone (i.e. net or headset).

Final Thoughts

I do want that there were more alternatives. For example, there is currently no chance to silence your microphone from the video call home window; so you 'd have to enter into your computer settings to do this or use the mute switch on your headset (if it has one).

Additionally, unlike Google+ Hangouts, there is currently no way to do team video talks-- something that makes certain ahead in handy for catching up with multiple friends and family, team projects, conferences, meetings, and also a lot more. For now, you can still make use of Skype for that. Given that every person is already on Facebook and also are not most likely to in fact download Skype (if they have not already), this is definitely something that should be implemented ASAP. Nonetheless, you can do team message chats within the normal chat home window.

What are your ideas on Facebook's new video calling function? Do you believe it's a needed feature? Is it something that you can see on your own and/or friends and family using at all? Feel free to tell us your thoughts in the comments below.

Tweet