5 Best Video Chat Services for Your Business

Video chat is a great way to stay connected to your team, especially if your business operates virtually. Whether you’re looking to host formal meetings or connect one-on-one, there’s a solution available. Here are our five top picks for mobile video chat services that you can use on your desktop and mobile devices.

1. Google+ Hangouts

Google+ Hangouts is a great choice, especially if you already use Google Apps for business. This lets you connect with up to nine team members at once. The service integrates with your existing Google account, so there’s no need to sign up for a new account. Hangouts are accessible from your laptop, as well as Apple and Android devices.

The program allows you to share screens and use Google Docs for real-time collaboration. Another useful feature is the ability to broadcast your Hangout to a global audience and share it via a URL. Google+ Hangouts are free.

2. FaceTime

If your team uses Mac products, consider using FaceTime chat for business collaboration. FaceTime is an iOS app that allows you to video chat with your team quickly and easily.

The app is available for the full range of newer Apple mobile devices, including the iPod Touch, iPad, and iPhone. Desktop users can also download FaceTime for Mac. It’s a reliable solution for teams who are seeking to remain connected via their Apple devices. FaceTime is a free product for all Mac devices.

3. Skype

Skype is one of the most reliable video chat services. It works on a range of devices and is globally popular. If you’re trying to connect with colleagues internationally, Skype is likely to be the chat program of choice. According to the BBC, the application was approaching 700 million users throughout the world. It’s installed as an app on your smartphone or a program on your computer.

Whether you want to connect with your team via IM or video chat, Skype is a great way to do it. It’s also a helpful way to cut costs. Savvy business owners who make long distance or international calls can frequently purchase a subscription to Skype for lower than average calling rates. It’s free to IM and video chat between Skype accounts. Unlimited calling plans range from $2.99 to $13.99 per month, depending on the countries you’re calling.

4. ooVoo

ooVoo initially got its start as a chat app that was popular with teens. But its usefulness has led to quick adoption for many businesses. ooVoo works on mobile devices and computers and integrates with Facebook. It allows you to video chat with up to 12 people simultaneously, share screens, and record and send static messages.

The major limitation of ooVoo is that your colleagues are likely using other programs. But ooVoo can be a great choice when it’s adopted as a company-wide solution. Basic ooVoo service is free. A premium service eliminates ads, enables screenshare, and includes more features for $2.99/month.

5. Qik

Qik is another app that works on both your smartphone and desktop. Qik offers video chat capabilities as well as a number of other useful features, including streaming video from your phone to the web and uploading content to YouTube.

If video is an important component of your marketing mix, Qik is a great app that combines mobile video making with chat functionality. Basic functionality on Qik is free. The premium version unlocks features like unlimited storage and priority tech support for $4.99 per month.

Video chat makes it easy to stay visually connected with your team, even in remote locations. If you’re looking for versatile ways to connect with your virtual team face-to-face, download one of these apps today.