I’ll introduce web conferencing (chat + video calling) tools that are free, support long durations, and can be used by multiple people.

Background

Free Web Conferencing Tools

Since this isn’t for corporate use, the need to use free tools as much as possible is common.

This time, under such premises, I searched for free web conferencing tools.

Web Conferencing Tools for Long-Duration Multi-User Use

For 1-on-1 cases, there are tools without time limits, but I searched for web conferencing tools that can be used for long durations and multiple people even when free.

Immediately Adopted Web Conferencing Tools

Google Hangouts

Google Hangouts is most recommended as it has the three essential features: free, long-duration, and multi-user.

Since many people already have Gmail accounts, the bothersome step of creating new accounts for Google Hangouts is often unnecessary.

Also, when using on desktop, it’s an advantage that you can use it from a web browser without installing an app.

Skype

Skype | 無料通話とチャット用のコミュニケーション ツール

To use Skype on desktop, you need to install an app, so it seems to have a slightly higher hurdle than Google Hangouts.

Close Call Web Conferencing Tools

Zoom

Zoom has no time limit for 1-on-1 calls, but has a 40-minute time limit for group calls.

Whereby (formerly appear.in)

Video Meetings, Video Conferencing and Screen Sharing | Whereby

With the free plan, one screen sharing session is limited to 20 minutes. You can extend by 20 minutes by sharing again after time expires, but it’s somewhat inconvenient, so I’ve classified it as “close call.”

That’s all from the Gemba.