FaceTime was introduced by Apple in 2010 and has gained popularity since. With more products such as Macs, iPad 2 and iPod touch being supported, the video-call software has become more flexible.
There are some limitations, though. Not everyone uses (or likes) Apple products and FaceTime can only be used between two iDevices. You also need to be connected to Wi-Fi for the feature to work, unless you jailbreak your device anyway. Today we’ll cover a few alternatives to using FaceTime on your iPhone.
Skype
Skype not only allows video calls, but text messaging and regular phone calls too. You’ll have to sign up for a pay-as-you-go option when placing calls to land lines but the service can be used to call anyone using the Skype software. Calls can be placed from an iPhone, Android, PC or Mac over your existing Wi-Fi or 3G connection. With Microsoft purchasing Skype recently, we may see it on our Xboxes soon too.
Download Skype for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch [iTunes Link]
Tango Video Calls
This free app allows you to place video calls over Wi-Fi or 3G networks. The popular app is highly rated and simple to use. Once installed, it automatically searches your address book and lets you know which friends use the service. You’ll be up and running in seconds.
Download Tango Video Calls for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch [iTunes Link]
Ustream
Ustream is a different type of video software; it’s not designed for a face-to-face experience. As the name implies, you can stream video and allow users to watch along. You also have the option of recording the stream to later post it online. You can share your streams on Facebook and Twitter.
Download Ustream for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch [iTunes Link]
ooVoo Video Chat
This is another free application that allows you to make video calls but now with up to six people simultaneously. You can use the app on the iPad as well. You also have the option of calling landlines from the app for a low rate.
Download ooVoo Video Chat for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad [iTunes Link]
Fring
Fring is absolutely free on the App Store and shares a particular feature from ooVoo Video Chat; it supports four way video calling across multiple platforms! How cool is that? Supports the iPad natively, signing up is quick and easy you’ll be having a group chat with your buddies in a matter of couple of minutes.
Download Fring for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch [iTunes link]
Yahoo! Messenger
With video calling added to the roster a while back, Yahoo! Messenger is indeed an app which had to make it to this list. The only downside of said app is; you must have a Yahoo! email account in order to use it. Absolutely free on the App Store and supports the iPhone and iPad both natively.
Download Yahoo! Messenger for iPhone, iPad and iPod touch [iTunes link]
While FaceTime brought face-to-face video calls into mainstream status, it’s not your only option. Let us know what video focused apps you use in the comment section of our Facebook and Google+ pages.
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