The best Apps for staying in touch

The current coronavirus outbreak has meant we’ve all had to get a little creative when it comes to communicating with each other.

Long gone are the texts and WhatsApp messages, in favour of video calls and other innovative methods of communication. So, how can you chat with your loved ones at this time? We found out.

HOUSEPARTY

If you’re missing seeing your friends or family in person, like many of us are, then Houseparty might be the app for you.

Available both as an App and on your computer, Houseparty is a social video App that allows you to have fun with your friends and family as you catch up.

When you open the app, you can see which of your friends are online, and they’ll be notified that you’re online. You’ll then be able to start talking straight away, unless they’ve locked their ‘house’ so others can’t come in and crash the party.

If you’re not in the mood to chat, you can play games instead, such as Heads Up, Quick Draw and Trivia, with up to eight people able to play at a time. The perfect way to catch up, have fun, and forget about everything that’s going on.

WHATSAPP

There’s been a 40 per cent increase in usage of WhatsApp since the coronavirus outbreak began, which isn’t surprising, as more people are unable to visit their loved ones in person.

Not only is their video function a great way to stay in touch with others, but you can also use WhatsApp to get updates regarding COVID-19 through the government’s bot, as well as ask questions and receive advice.

MESSENGER

If you have Facebook, then downloading the Messenger app is essential to keep in touch with your Facebook friends. Use the filters to cheer each other up and entertain.

Messenger is a simple way to stay in touch with anyone you have on Facebook and keep updated with what’s going on. Use it to message, call or video chat with your best friend, your sibling, or catch up with someone you haven’y spoken to in a while.

GAMES

Just because you can’t see your friends and family in person doesn’t mean you can’t have fun together. There are plenty of apps you can download to connect with your loved ones.

Online versions of games such as Words With Friends, Draw Something, Uno and Friends, Exploding Kittens and Cards Against Humanity are all available online or through your phone’s app store.

These games are not only a great way to pass the time, but enable you to stay in touch with your friends and family, and have fun together.

Speaking face-to-face is so important at times like these, and seeing people as you talk to them adds another dimension to your conversation.

So, the next time you pick up your phone to call your family or text a friend, why not try one of these apps instead?

How have you been staying in touch with your loved ones recently? Let our #EnableCommunity know on Twitter and Instagram.

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