With the current coronavirus outbreak causing people to stay at home, video calls are quickly becoming the best way to keep in touch with our loved ones.
However, they’ve also become an excellent way to organise virtual social gatherings for those who are social distancing. Because if you can’t go to the party, why not bring the party to you?
A few select apps are helping people virtually socialise by providing a platform to have group dinners, makeshift nights ‘out’, film and TV viewing parties and live music experiences, all done virtually.
So if you’re looking for ways to hang out with friends and family without actually hanging out. Here are the apps making it all possible.
Facebook Live
Many are using Facebook Live to host long-distance music gigs. The Facebook feature is also good for general live interaction with others as well as being a great way to host tutorials – from live cooking sessions to at-home yoga classes.
Download the app at facebook.com.
Google Hangout
This is usually used for business purposes. However, Google Hangout can also be used for group video chats with up to 25 people. So whether you’re working from home and want to catch up with colleagues or you’re in dire need to see your friends, simply log-in using your Gmail details and set up the group call.
Download the app at hangouts.google.com.
Instagram Live
There are endless ways to keep yourself entertained on Instagram. Hilarious meme accounts, insta stories, Q&As and scrolling through your explore page are just a few. But with the rise social distancing, the social media platform has become the place to be to watch live music gigs. So far, both Christ Martin and John Legend have hosted live music performances via Instagram live. Who knows who’ll be next?
Download the app at instagram.com.
Netflix Party
The streaming service has launched a new feature titled Netflix Party, which allows us to watch our favourite TV shows and movies with our friends online. The clever new addition synchronises video playback and adds group chat to your Netflix shows, so get a group together and enjoy a long-distance movie night.
Download the app at netflixparty.com.
Zoom
The app is usually used for business meetings and conferences as it can accommodate a large group of people to join a chat – 100 to be exact. Get create and use it to organise virtual pub experiences, parties, work out classes or any other group activities you’ve been missing during social distancing.
Download the app at zoom.us.
