In today’s age of digital innovation, staying connected with loved ones, attending virtual meetings, or consulting with professionals from the comfort of your home has never been easier. A popular method is through video calls, a type of technology that lets you see and speak with someone in real-time through a device’s camera and microphone. If you’re a senior eager to delve into personal technology and wondering how to make a video call, you’re in the right place!

1. Choose Your Device: First, decide on which device you’d like to use. You can make video calls on various devices:

• Smartphones and Tablets: Apple’s iPhone or iPad, Android phones, or tablets are common choices.
• Computers: Laptops or desktops equipped with a webcam.
• Smart Displays: Devices like Amazon’s Echo Show or Google Nest Hub.

2. Choose a Video Calling Application: There are several apps designed for video calls. Some of the popular ones include:

• Skype: A pioneer in video calling, available on nearly all devices.
• Zoom: Highly popular, especially for group calls or virtual meetings.
• FaceTime: Exclusive to Apple devices.
• WhatsApp: Ideal for mobile devices and offers end-to-end encryption for secure calls.
• Google Duo: A straightforward video calling app from Google, available on many platforms.

3. Setup Your Chosen Application: Once you’ve picked an app:

• Download & Install: On mobile devices, visit the App Store (for Apple devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices). For computers, go to the application’s official website.
• Sign Up: Some apps require an account. Follow the on-screen prompts to sign up using your email or phone number.
• Permissions: Ensure the app has permission to use your device’s camera and microphone. This typically pops up the first time you attempt a call or can be checked in the device’s settings.

4. Make the Call:

• Add Contacts: Add the person you wish to call to your contacts in the app. This might involve typing in their phone number or email address.
• Initiate the Call: Find the person in your contact list and tap or click on the video camera icon to start a video call. Wait for them to pick up, and you’re connected!

Tips:

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection for a smooth call.
• Use headphones or earbuds for better audio quality and reduced background noise.
• Adjust your camera angle to eye level for a more direct and engaging conversation.

Remember, practice makes perfect! As you get more comfortable with video calling, it will become second nature. Happy video calling!