Video conference software and video calling apps allow family, friends, and colleagues to meet face-to-face through their Internet connections and the built-in camera and microphones in their computers or mobile devices.
Many well-known software companies, such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft, offer their own video conference and calling software, in addition to services that have recently grown in popularity, such as Zoom.
Use this subject guide to explore each service’s website and support center to learn how to set up your video calls for success.
Websites
Zoom
Zoom Website | Zoom YouTube Channel
- Getting started instructions, organized by device type
- Setting up audio, video, and sharing
- Answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs)
- How to Keep Uninvited Guests Out of Your Zoom Event, from the Zoom Blog
Reviews
Google Meet
- Requirements for using Google Meet
- Joining a meeting
- Troubleshoot issues
- Google Meet tips from The Keyword, the Google Blog
Reviews
FaceTime
Apple Support Center | FaceTime on the Apple YouTube Channel
Getting started with FaceTime:
Reviews
Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams website | Teams on the Microsoft YouTube Playlist
Microsoft Teams Help & Learning
Reviews
General Tips for Making Video Calls
- AARP: How to Use Zoom to Stay Connected During the Coronavirus
- CNET: 11 Video Chat App Tricks to Use During Social Distancing
- Consumer Reports: Guide to Videoconference Services
- Lifewire: Video Call How-Tos, Help, and Tips
- PCMag: 8 Tips for Better Video Conference Calls
Reference / Resources
Library Resources
These resources can be accessed with your UA Library card number and PIN:
Consumer Reports: Find ratings, reviews, and buying guides, plus recent news and articles on popular video conference and calling services, and security and privacy measures
LinkedInLearning: online tutorials and courses that teach business, software, technology, creative skills and more. LinkedInLearning includes tutorials for using the following video conferencing software, among others:
Review and Resource Websites
The following websites are recommended by Media Services staff as reliable sources for product reviews and for instructional articles about the everyday use of technology, including video calling services.
- AARP: Personal Technology Articles and Videos
- CNET
- How-to Geek
- Lifewire
- PCMag
- TechRadar
- Tom’s Guide
- The Wirecutter
The following websites offer free, online training and self-paced tutorials on using technology, including video calling services.
GCFLearnFree offers thousands of up-to-date lessons covering more than 200 topics, including tutorials on basic computer skills, email, social media, and online safety. Examples of video conference/calling app tutorials include:
Dummies: Step-by-step online instructions and tip sheets from the company that publishes the popular for Dummies book series. Find guides for using video calling apps and software, including the following:
- FaceTime: How to Make a FaceTime Call | How to Use FaceTime on Your iPad
- Microsoft Teams: Cheat Sheet
TechBoomers: An educational website that offers tutorials on using websites, social media, apps, and mobile technology. TechBoomers focuses on older adults and those who are new Internet users.
Journals / Magazines
Read the latest technology news and reviews on your mobile device using the Libby app’s digital magazine collection. Libby is available for Apple and Android phones and tablets, and from your computer web browser.
- Macworld
- PC Magazine
- PCWorld
- Wired
Libby is available to use with your Upper Arlington Public Library card. Use these guides to get started with the app: