Isolation and Online contact

In these isolated times, when most of our Wavelength group are 'self-isolating', contacting family and friends online is becoming an essential, rather than an optional extra.
Fortunately, there are some 80,000 'videoconferencing tools' available.  I've narrowed it down to just a few.

WhatsApp, Skype, Facetime, Zoom, and Houseparty.

I've precised some information available online.  If you would like some help setting up any of these, do contact us via WhatsApp.  We also have some tablets available for loan.

WhatsApp (owned and run by Facebook)

You have it on your phone, probably, and it is relatively easy to start a 'call' (voice only) or a 'video call' (voice and picture).  Downside is that you can't get it on your PC on a big screen.
You can do a group video call with up to 3 other people, or start with 2 and INVITE another etc.

Skype (owned and run by Microsoft)

It is available to download on your PC (you need a camera and mike on your PC/laptop/iPad), and/or your phone.  You need to create a Microsoft account (xxxxxx@outlook.com) in order to create a Skype ID.
It is easy to use, and we use it regularly to talk with our daughter abroad.  You can setup a group chat or video for up to 50 people I think.

Facetime (owned and run by Apple)

Those with iPads, iPhones, MACs, probably have this built in.  I'm not sure it is available on other platforms (Windows 10, Android phones) so haven't used it.

Zoom (independent company who created and run it)

It was created for the business community, and has had a massive increase in use in the past weeks, even by our UK Government.  There are some doubts about its security, but if you are careful, you should have no problem (I wouldn't suggest displaying your bank details during a meeting, any more than you would in an email).
Our Vicars are using it for 'group services' online.
You may have heard about the New Zealand school who had an assembly 'crashed' by some pornographic pictures.  My guess is that the school advertised the meeting address and password on their public web site, hence anyone could join in!  Of course that's not secure.

Houseparty (independent company)

I gather this is the choice of the 'cool kids on the block'!  You join a 'house' and can go into different rooms . . . probably not for the fainthearted.

WARNING

If you use these apps on your phone, and you are NOT on wifi, they can use up your data allowance very quickly, as do any videos, films etc!  I think they are all fine if you are connected to your home or a public wifi.

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