Smart TVs are becoming increasingly popular, as they offer a wide range of features that enhance the viewing experience. One of these features is the ability to make video calls directly from your TV. Video calling has become an essential part of our lives, especially during the pandemic when physical distancing measures have been in place. In this article, we will explore how video calling on a smart TV works, its advantages and disadvantages, and how to set it up.
How Does Video Calling on a Smart TV Work?
Video calling on a smart TV is similar to video calling on a computer or smartphone, except that the TV is used as a display screen. You will need a camera and microphone to make video calls on your TV. Some smart TVs come with an in-built camera and microphone, while others require an external camera and microphone.
To make a video call, you will need a video calling app installed on your TV. Some of the popular video calling apps that can be used on a smart TV include Skype, Zoom, Google Meet, and Facetime. You will need to sign in to the app with your account details, and then select the contact you want to call. Once the call is connected, you will be able to see and hear the person you are calling on your TV screen.
Advantages of Video Calling on a Smart TV
- Larger Display Screen: One of the biggest advantages of video calling on a smart TV is the larger display screen. The larger screen allows for a more immersive experience, and you can see the person you are calling in more detail.
- Comfort: Another advantage of video calling on a smart TV is that you can sit back and relax on your couch while making the call, which is more comfortable than holding a smartphone or sitting in front of a computer.
- Group Calls: Smart TVs allow for group video calls, which is perfect for families or friends who are in different locations. With a larger screen, everyone can participate in the call without having to huddle around a smartphone or computer.
- Better Audio Quality: Smart TVs come with powerful speakers, which means that the audio quality of the video call will be much better than on a smartphone or computer.
Disadvantages of Video Calling on a Smart TV
- Camera and Microphone Quality: The quality of the camera and microphone on a smart TV may not be as good as on a smartphone or computer. Some smart TVs may not have an in-built camera or microphone, which means that you will need to purchase an external camera and microphone.
- Limited App Availability: The number of video calling apps available on a smart TV may be limited, and some apps may not be optimized for the TV screen.
- Network Issues: Video calling on a smart TV requires a stable and high-speed internet connection. If your internet connection is slow or unstable, the video call quality may suffer.
How to Set Up Video Calling on a Smart TV
- Check for In-Built Camera and Microphone: If your smart TV has an in-built camera and microphone, you can skip this step. If not, you will need to purchase an external camera and microphone that are compatible with your TV.
- Install Video Calling App: You will need to install a video calling app on your smart TV. The app can be downloaded from the TV’s app store. Some of the popular video calling apps that can be used on a smart TV include Skype, Zoom, Google Meet, and Facetime.
- Sign In to App: Once you have installed the app, you will need to sign in with your account details. If you don’t have an account, you will need to create one.
- Connect Camera and Microphone: If you are using an external camera and microphone, you will need to connect them to your TV.
