The most difficult part for us during these trying times is the lack of in-person communication with our extended family, friends, and colleagues. Thankfully, we’re halfway through the circuit breaker period.

We’re sure that all of us are looking forward to seeing our extended family, friends, and colleagues again. But if you think that you’re not able to last 2 more weeks without keeping in constant contact with your loved ones, fret not.

Group video platforms are now on the rise, and here are some of our fave 5 platforms to use to keep in touch with your loved ones during the circuit breaker period, for the next 2 weeks. Ranging from the usual Skype video calls to playing mini-games with your friends via Houseparty, these apps have something for everyone.

HOUSEPARTY

Houseparty is a free-to-download application that allows its users to video call and play quizzes and games with each other. This brings us together online, when we can’t do it face to face. What makes this app stand out is the addition of quizzes and games you can play over a call, giving us the freedom to do more than just talk. It is one of the most popular apps on the App Store.

Available on iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and Android. More information can be found here.

SKRIBBL.IO

Skribbl.io is a free multiplayer drawing and guessing game, and the largest drawing game online. In one game, there are a few rounds. In every round, someone draws their chosen word on screen, and the others in the group have to submit wild guesses as to what the drawing is to gain points. The person who gains the most points at the end of the game wins. A great way to rewind with your friends on a lazy afternoon, we think.

Play Skribbl.io here. Available on iOS, macOS, and Android.

SKYPE

Before WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Houseparty, there was Skype. Skype is a veteran telecommunications application, specialising in video chats and voice calls. It’s also very family-friendly and has parental control features that allow their children to only add people they know, so parents need not worry.

Skype is available on various platforms, ranging from macOS (for Mac users), to Android tablets, to Amazon Alexa devices. Find the full list here.

ZOOM

Zoom was originally mostly used by business organisations to host business meetings. Nowadays, people use the app to host virtual birthday parties, or virtual classrooms for kids stuck in their homes. Their free plan allows you to host up to 100 participants, have unlimited number of meetings, and a 40-minute limit on group meetings.

Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. More information here.

KAST

Kast is a video sharing app that allows its users to host watch parties with friends. Kast allows you to host TV and movie watch parties with 100+ friends, and you’re even able to play and live stream your games by sharing your screen. These features make Kast stand out from the usual telecommunications app.

Available on Windows, PC, and macOS. Download and find out more here.