The web is buzzing right now about Google+ and Facebook’s new video calling feature. Both offer different features and draw backs. Some people are raving fans, others can’t stand one platform or another. One way or another, it’s my opinion that video chat will become much more prevalent and common so I’m excited to see the big guys innovating. I’ve put together a brief comparison below so you can see what each platform offers and if it will suit your needs.
Google+ Hangout
Overview:
Google+ hangout allows you to connect to multiple people, chat as a group and watch videos as a group.
Pros:
- Invite only people or groups that you want to hangout with
- Group video / text chat (up to 10 people) for FREE
- Watch YouTube videos together
- Option to hide your video / mute your audio in the chat
- Automatic switching to video of person speaking
- Can block / mute people in the chat
- Opens in a new window, not in your browser
Cons:
- Limited amount of users (for now)
- Could get confusing with 10 people chatting
Facebook Video Chat
Overview:
Facebook has partnered with Skype to offer one on one video chatting with your Facebook friends.
Pros:
- All of your existing contacts are on Facebook, so you’ll have a larger group to chat with
Cons:
- No text chat window (inside of video call)
- Only video chat with one person
- Can’t mute mic or turn off camera
- Group video chat on Skype is $4.49 a month (with a 12 month purchase)
- Only Windows / Mac, no Linux support (yet)
Click here to read more posts on the Schipul blog about Facebook, or read more about social media on the Schipul blog by clicking here. Want to connect with us on Facebook?  We’re here and would love to chat!