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A Guide to Video Phone

Today, video conferencing is seen everywhere, in an endless variety of applications. Video phones allow individuals to communicate with each other through a video connection, facilitated by a telephone line or the Internet. Regardless of time or location, parties are able to easily conduct meetings, hold discussions, or simply engage in a friendly conversation. With high quality video and audio, video phones have become a revolutionary development in communication.

The Start of the Video Phone

The history of the video phone first began with developments by AT&T. Their efforts eventually lead to the Bell System Picturephone, which was introduced in the International World Fair in 1964. This device allowed individuals to make calls to others in different locations. In Japan, France, Sweden and other countries, developers soon began to devise their own version of the video phone. These developers would integrate different types of technologies, including POTS lines and wireless telecommunications. Eventually, technology advanced to the sophisticated video phone seen today.

Benefits of Video Phone

Nowadays, video phone is a common sight, available with computers, mobile phones, and other electronic devices. However, most people do not understand the benefits behind this common application. Some of the advantages of video phone include:

Real-Time Interaction:
Video phones allow individuals to engage in face to face communication, allowing for a greater level of interaction. Through a video display, parties are able to observe facial expressions and eye contact, allowing for facilitated communication. In addition, video phones are beneficial to the hearing impaired, as it allows individuals to use sign language or alternative modes of communication.

Immediacy:
 Regardless of the location of the individual, video phones allow them to hold a conversation from nearly anywhere. Useful for business applications, video phones allow companies to engage in global communications and meetings around the world. Presentations and pitches can be shown through video phones, virtually connecting clients and employees together.  

Quality:
Recent applications of video phone are sophisticated, with high resolution and live streaming options. With a reliable, high speed Internet connection, individuals can engage in streamlined dialogue that feels like a real, face to face conversation.

Convenience:
Arguably, the main benefit of the video phone is convenience.   Many mobile devices have a video phone function, allowing individuals to engage in video conversation from nearly anywhere. In addition, video phones also let individuals instantly share events with each other by recording and sending video. As long as the individual has access to a high speed Internet connection, they can take advantage of the mobility and portability of video phones.  

Tips for Purchasing a Video Phone

Choosing the right video phone can be a daunting task. However, the following tips can help customers find the best suited choice:

Cost:
Video phones can range in price, depending on the application and the service. Certain services, such as Skype and Google Voice, offer free voice calling and other phone services. However, customers can also engage in dedicated business services, which can support multiple users and advanced security features.

Setting:
When choosing a video phone, customers should consider the applications behind the service. Is the customer looking for a video phone in a business, personal, or educational setting? This question will help the individual determine what type of video phone to purchase.

Type:
Video phones are available on a variety of devices, ranging from computers to mobile devices.  Sophisticated mobile phones have a video conferencing option, allowing individuals to record and share video conversations. On the other hand, individuals can download video phone software onto their computers. However, the customer can also choose to purchase dedicated phones that feature a video phone option.