With the spread of self-isolation, the need for video calling apps has skyrocketed. iPhone video chat apps can do it all: online meetings after hours, virtual dates with a lover who lives far away, or emotional calls with family who lives far away. These video conferencing apps let you mark your presence in places where you can’t be in person.
The growing popularity of these apps has pushed developers to create more advanced versions of existing iPhone video calling platforms. So how do you find which app is best for you? To help you out, we’ve put together this list of the best video conferencing apps for iPhone and iPad. Plus, the list features the pros and cons of some of the most effective free video conferencing apps, so you can easily pick your favorite.
- face time
- Google Meetings
- zoom meeting
- Facebook messenger
- Microsoft Teams
- Discord
- BOTIM
- JustTalk
- viber messenger
- Weak
1. FaceTime – Editors’ Choice
With FaceTime, Apple entered the world of video conferencing, making it more accessible, convenient, and instantaneous. This feature comes preinstalled on all Apple products, so it’s best used for video calls on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Alternatively, you can invite others to a FaceTime call using a shared web link. Interestingly, you can freely chat with up to 32 people at a time on FaceTime.
In addition to being easy to use, FaceTime comes with some fun features, including screen sharing, multiple video modes, and more. For example, the SharePlay feature lets you watch videos while listening to your favorite music at the same time. Plus, shared controls, synchronized playback, and smart volume ensure your conversations aren’t disrupted by a song or video playing nearby.
The Voice Isolation feature lets you block outside noise, while the Wide Spectrum feature lets you use all sounds during a call. In addition, FaceTime calls are integrated into the Recent Calls list in the Phone app.
If you want to focus on you during a conversation, you can use the Portrait mode to blur the background. Moreover, you can add effects to your videos with animoji, notes, and stickers. Also, you can use the Handoff feature if you want to switch calls from iPhone to iPad or Mac. So, why not get the best results from FaceTime by using it like a pro on your iPhone?
pros
- Supports up to 32 people in one call
- It is built into iPhone, iPad and Mac.
- SharePlay lets you share content with others
- FaceTime Audio makes voice calls easy
Minuses
- Android and Windows users get limited access through a web browser
Price: Free download
2. Google Meet – interactive video communication from Google.
Google Meet is an updated version of Google Duo. The platform allows you to connect, interact, collaborate and share in one place. With Google Meet, you can make instant video calls or schedule a meeting in advance. In addition, you can join a group of 100 people by sending a meeting request. And yes, the app is fully compatible with iPhone, iPad and Mac.
With Google Meet, you can enjoy seamless access to high-quality audio and video calls from anywhere, anytime. Noise cancellation, screen sharing, and low light mode will most likely enhance your video calling experience. Plus, Google’s speech-to-text technology transcribes your subtitled content in real time, so you get all the details. Finally, you can use interactive filters, effects, augmented reality masks, and backgrounds to give your video calls a personal touch.
The knock-knock feature gives you a live video preview so you know who’s calling before you even answer. Also, if someone doesn’t answer your Google Meet call, you can leave a video message for them to request a call back. Feel free to capture or record the moments you want to share with other members on the app. Plus, you can host live chats, polls, Q&A rounds, and more with Meet.
Google never disappoints with its security standards; it’s no different than Google Meet. Here, your video interactions are encrypted in transit to ensure data privacy. Start meetings with Gmail or integrate your schedule with Google Calendar and quickly get reminded of any schedule changes.
pros
- Simple and very interactive
- Mosaic option to view members
- Multiple webcam streams supported
- Confidential Participant List
Minuses
- Problems with subtitles during meetings
- Can’t see participants when screen sharing
Price: Free download
3. WhatsApp is safe, fast and convenient
WhatsApp, owned by Meta, shines as the most popular video chat app in the world – all thanks to its easy-to-use interface that allows you to chat, video call or share information for free. Despite a slow start, WhatsApp has quickly taken the lead with best-in-class features. One of the reasons for this success is the quality of WhatsApp video calls, which is relatively higher even at low network speeds.
Did you know that WhatsApp allows 50 people to join video calls at the same time? This is due to the app’s integration with the new Rooms offering on Facebook Messenger. Also, I recommend checking out our Whatsapp tips and tricks guide for a better experience.
On WhatsApp, you can join a video call using your iPhone contact number. Easy, right? What’s more, just like text messaging, WhatsApp secures your video calls with end-to-end encryption. This ensures that none of your conversations are accessed by third-party attackers.
In addition, today WhatsApp allows you to make and receive video calls in its desktop version. So, attend meetings, video call your gang, or attend seminars for free.
pros
- End-to-End Encryption
- Video calling support for up to 50 participants
- High quality video
- Intuitive user interface
Minuses
- Desktop video calls require a permanent phone connection
Price: Free download
4. Zoom Meeting – Ideal for large group video calls
Zoom Meeting is one of the best free video conferencing apps for making video calls with a large number of people. This cloud-based service allows you to communicate virtually with others via video-only-audio or both, while interacting in chats at the same time. The app’s gallery view feature puts everyone on the screen, regardless of the number of participants. In addition, screen sharing, end-to-end encryption, and an interactive interface make Zoom the perfect video conferencing app.
The application allows you to initiate chats with internal or external contacts without fail. You can schedule or join a video meeting with one click using Zoom. In addition, it is very convenient to share and add live annotations to content in this application. You can use whiteboards to brainstorm ideas and then share them via chat with others.
Enjoy multitasking with Zoom using Picture & Picture mode on iPhone or split view on iPad. In addition, you can set up Siri shortcuts for better hands-free experience when using Zoom Meeting.
While there is no limit to a one-on-one chat session, there is a 40-minute time limit for free users when there are more than three people in a meeting. You must switch to the Premium or Business tier to host meetings with 100 or more people at the same time.
pros
- Live chats
- Call recording allowed
- Google calendar integration
- High quality audio/video calls
Minuses
- Free Time Limits
- Requires modern equipment
- Security questions
Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $15.99) Download
While many people consider Facebook Messenger to be a social media platform, the app’s capabilities go far beyond that. It allows you to make high-quality audio calls, video calls, text messaging, photo sharing, etc. You can also instantly connect with your friends and family by initiating video calls, where you can invite up to 50 people to join the call.
If you want to save those awkward moments of your friends, Facebook Messenger lets you do just that. The application allows you to take screenshots during a call and save them to your iPhone’s camera roll. You can choose interactive video filters from the range of options available in the app and make your video calls even more intriguing.
In addition, you can watch videos, TV shows and movies with your friends in chat and Messenger rooms. Also, join group calls via a link with people who don’t use the app. Make your Messenger video chats fun with popular GIFs, emojis, and stickers.
Plus, you can easily send files, photos, and videos during video conferences with your co-workers or friends. The app lets you switch to dark mode so you can rest your eyes during long chats.
pros
- Simple interface
- Group video chat and calls
- Multiple video filters
Minuses
- Permission package
- Excessive battery usage
- Security threats such as fake IDs
Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $0.99) Download
6. Microsoft Teams – Video calling app for professionals
Microsoft Teams has a separate fan base among businesses and professionals. The app’s intuitive interface, supported by a host of handy features, makes it a solid option on our list of the best video conferencing apps for iPhone and iPad. So, whether you’re collaborating with your team members on an important project or just chatting with a distant friend, Microsoft Teams has you covered.
This application is a complete package where you can chat, make voice or video calls, share content, edit files while interacting, share tasks and schedule meetings. For example, you can use cloud storage to instantly access shared files and data during video calls. In addition, you can organize your work by grouping conversations by topic, project type, or channels. The tool will save you time and relieve you of the stressful search in the content pool.
Set up video calls in seconds and invite others by sharing a link or calendar invitation. The application uses artificial intelligence technology to offer you professional-level services. This technology allows you to share your screen, use whiteboards for brainstorming and discussions, or go into virtual rooms.
You can add up to 100 people to a video call using the free version of the app. Wow! Even if you connect the farthest member of the family to the loop, this is a large number. In addition, Teams allows you to keep your communities safe by allowing you to remove troublesome members from a chat or call group.
pros
- No additional cost for Microsoft 365 license holders.
- Support for third party tools
- Convenient file search and collaboration
Minuses
- Huge memory consumption
- Security Threats
- Limited channels
Price: Free download
7. Discord is a must for gamers
In general, people view Discord as a chat app for gamers. But the app has more. You can also use Discord for video conferencing. Yes, you read it right! Discord uses a seamless multi-user online gaming gateway. Greet each other via video, send group/private messages, share stories on voice calls, or watch others stream their games—Discord lets you do it all.
You can instantly stream one participant’s screen content to others without interruption using the Go Live streaming feature of the app. Here you can share displays with up to 50 people at the same time. Discord has become my best partner for online gaming with friends during the COVID-19 lockdown. Free tier streaming quality tops out at 720p at 30fps. However, for $10 a month, you can switch to the Nitro version to get 1080p quality streaming at 60fps.
In Discord, servers are divided into thematic channels. You can instantly share, collaborate, meet or interact with others. Go to your voice channel so your friends can see that you’re available to chat without calling. Take pictures during a video call and turn them into emoji before sharing them with your friends.
Easy sharing allows you to share your knowledge of memes with others. Group your friends by different interests using customizable moderation features and permission tools to easily bring them together during video calls.
pros
- Good for gamers
- Easy image and video sharing
- Private conversations in private messages
Minuses
- Limited opportunities
- Free version server limit
- Too many spam links
Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $2.99) Download
8. BOTIM is a multipurpose video calling app
BOTIM is another important video calling app that has caught the attention of the world with its simple user interface and cool features. The app allows you to make FREE end-to-end encrypted private or group audio and video calls from one corner of the world to another. With this amazing app, you can have exciting chats with up to 500 people and make group video calls with up to 21 people at the same time.
You can see this as a prerequisite for video conferencing applications, right? So what makes BOTIM different from others? Well, it is the fact that besides calls, BOTIM facilitates online bill payment, money transfer, electronic gaming and other daily ancillary activities.
In addition, you can skip the bank queues and use BOTIM for instant money transfers to your contacts. You can send or receive money after completing the digital KYC formalities. In addition, you can pay your mobile bills or do instant recharges at any time. Convenient, right?
The platform allows you to share your precious moments captured in images, videos, voice messages and documents with others. In addition, you can compete with your friends in online games such as YouDraw, YouLudo, etc. You can also start live audio chats while playing. Interestingly, the application has a step counter that allows you to lead a healthier lifestyle.
pros
- Video call with up to 21 people
- Share images, videos, audio messages, and more.
- Integration with the Health app and HealthKit
- Embedded emoji bar
Minuses
- Connectivity Issues
- Overheat
- Sound problems
Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $0.99) Download
9. JusTalk – Good quality video calling
JustTalk is a must-try video chat app with strangers and comes with a lot of valuable features. The app offers an easy-to-use, reliable, secure and fun way to communicate face-to-face with family, friends and colleagues. With the JustTalk app, you can make HD audio and video calls, record them, play games, draw and share photos to personalize your video calls.
The app allows you to send and receive images, videos, locations, stickers and GIFs with one person or with a group of up to 200 people. Also, with JusTalk Moments, you can share the day’s events, video calls or chats with your friends and family. Using the Smart Night Vision feature, you can add light to the background for video calls in the dark.
The application does not have a bar for the number of groups you create; however, there can be no more than 50 participants in one group. In addition, in-app chats and calls use end-to-end encryption. The JustTalk app works well on different operating systems and devices such as iPhone and iPad. In addition, the premium version of the app offers advanced features such as 720p HD quality, no ads, unique ringtones, themes, etc.
pros
- HD quality audio and video calls
- Instantly send and receive content to 200 people.
- Night light function for video calls in the dark
- Bluetooth supported
Minuses
- Only people with the app can call
- Frequent disconnections
Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $0.99) Download
10. Viber messenger – Vibe with creativity
Viber Messenger is a fun messaging and video calling app that bridges the gap between billions of people around the world. The application allows you to easily make an unlimited number of audio and video calls in excellent quality to a group of up to 50 people. What’s more, the risk of data theft or calls being tapped is negligible as the app uses end-to-end encryption to keep the user safe.
If you enjoy sharing the news of your life via SMS, Viber Messenger can be your perfect partner. The app allows you to start a group chat with a maximum of 250 participants at the same time. So you can use Viber Messenger to fill your family and friends inboxes with life updates, GIFs, video messages, files, funny memes, jokes and whatever you like.
Switch to convenient Viber Out international calls to landlines or mobiles. In addition, for a more personalized experience, you can join and interact with various communities of interest such as sports, news, travel, entertainment, etc.
You can get creative on Viber by playing with its fun and beautiful lenses. Add a twist to your content with over 55,000 stickers and GIFs available in the app. In addition, you can use polls and quizzes, or leave mentions and reactions in chats. Disappearing messages with a timer set from 10 seconds, 1 minute or 1 day is also an interesting feature of Viber.
pros
- Easy to use and add contacts for audio/video calls, messages
- High speed
- Share files, images, videos, memes, GIFs, and more.
Minuses
- Problems with backing up photos and videos
- High speed internet connection required
- Communication restrictions
Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $0.99) Download
11. Slack is best for team communication
Are you looking for an efficient video calling app for seamless communication within your team? If yes, Slack is the app you can try. Whether you’re a small business or a big brand, Slack ensures that the communications flow in your ecosystem is top-notch. The platform brings together people and tools to help you manage day-to-day business operations with ease. Enjoy real-time messaging and video calls with this best conferencing app.
Start easy conversations with your team members and organize them into multiple categories such as topics, projects, and more. Teams can use the clips feature to create audio, video, and screen recordings and share them with others. It also helps to share news and ideas more accurately.
In addition, you can share screens, chat, and edit or cancel sent messages in the app. Slack supports over 2400 apps so you can easily manage your daily tasks. With Slack, you don’t have to worry about video quality because the app also works in low network conditions. The security of all chats and calls depends on encryption.
pros
- Easy to use video conferencing application
- Instant high quality video calls
- Seamless integration with other applications
Minuses
- Snooze Notifications
- Organizing channels in a section can be tricky
Price: Free download
Completion!
People rely on video conferencing apps for personal and professional purposes. Most commercial organizations use the video conferencing applications listed here. So why not use them on your iPhone and improve your connection speed?
Choose the app that best suits your requirements from this list of the best video call apps for iPhone. Also, add your favorite names not on this list in the comments section here.