How to make video calls on your Smart TV

Starting with phones, each gadget around us – large and small – has begun to jump on the “smart” bandwagon. The humble little television happens to be no exception. This device can do so much more than just allow you to watch movies and TV shows. However, did you know that they can also let you make video calls? No? Well, they do. So, say goodbye to squinting at a phone screen, trying to see everyone, and spending long hours with your back scrunched up over a laptop.

If you own an Android TV, you can install Google Duo from the Play Store app and video call your friends, family as well as colleagues. Bear in mind though, you will also need to plug in a compatible webcam, unless of course your TV comes with a built-in camera. Here are a few options you can consider:

Lenovo 300 USB 2.1MP Web Cam: This camera supports full HD video and has wide angle as well as 4x zoom capabilities, coupled with dual dedicated stereo mics. Furthermore, it can also rotate to a full 360 degrees, and can be placed at a distance from your TV with ease.

Logitech C922 Pro: This webcam features a 30fps compatibility at 1080p as well as 60fps compatibility at a 720p resolution. Furthermore, it also features two microphones offering crystal clear audio quality during calls. What’s more, the webcam comes with a tripod included in the box, useful in case your TV isn’t wall mounted.

If you don’t want another gadget alongside your TV, you can always connect supported devices such as a smartphone or laptop to your Smart TV. In the case of a laptop, connect it to the TV using an HDMI cable. Once connected, head to System and Display settings in Windows or Displays in macOS, and then click on System Preferences to configure your TV as either an extended or mirrored second monitor.

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To connect your smartphone to your TV, the easiest way to do so is via the use of casting devices such as Chromecast or Fire TV stick. In the case of Chromecast, follow the below steps

1. Make sure your smartphone is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast

2. Open the Google Home app

3. Touch and hold the tile showing the device you want to cast your screen to

4. Tap Cast and then Cast screen.

For Apple users, things get a little tricky. While some brands like LG, Sony and Samsung have developed a few TVs with built-in support, most Android TVs do not support AirPlay. All you do is the following

1. Connect your device to the same Wi-Fi network as your AirPlay-compatible TV

2. Find the video that you want to stream

3. Tap on AirPlay. In certain apps, you may have to find the same under a different option. Example, in the Photos app, first tap Share, under which you will find the AirPlay option

4. Choose your TV from the list, and you’re all set

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You can now open the video calling platform of your choice on your smartphone or laptop, and make calls to your loved ones as well as colleagues from the comfort of your home on a big screen. This particularly helps in group calls with a large number of participants. Make sure though that you place the device you are casting at a location from where its camera can clearly capture you, and your voice reaches the in-built microphones.