Keeping in touch using a video call
Age UK's handy advice on how to video call with family, friends and other loved ones.
Many people now use WhatsApp. It's an easy way to stay connected with loved ones – through photos, phone calls and video calls, as well as messages.
If you have a smartphone, you can download the WhatsApp app.
WhatsApp is free to download.
Click here to find out more about how to download apps
You can use WhatsApp on your computer or tablet – this is known as WhatsApp Web. However, because WhatsApp needs a phone number and SIM card to run, you must already have WhatsApp downloaded on your phone first to connect WhatsApp Web up with this. You can't video or audio call on WhatsApp Web.
Many of our local Age UKs provide computer and IT training, to make getting online straightforward and enjoyable.
WhatsApp is free to download from the App Store or Play Store. It uses your phone's internet connection and allows you to send unlimited messages, pictures and videos, so you don't need to worry about using up your allocated text or call allowances.
However, you may end up being charged extra if you go over your data allowance, so it's a good idea to connect to Wi-Fi if you're using WhatsApp, especially if you're using it for things that use a lot of data, like video calls or downloading videos.
The video below shows you how you can check how much data you're using through WhatsApp on the WhatsApp app itself:
WhatsApp is simple to use once you get the hang of it – it functions very similarly to texting on smartphones. This video shows you how to get started on WhatsApp, including how to add contacts from your phone.
How to send messages on WhatsApp:
Once the person you’re chatting with has seen your message, two blue ticks will appear next to it.
There are extra features you can use, like sending photos and videos:
Sharing photos can be a great way to feel closer to people, especially when you're not able to meet up in person.
You can also use WhatsApp to make phone calls. Using WhatsApp will mean that you don’t use up the minutes you get with your phone contract (or on your pay-as-you-go contract). And because calling over WhatsApp uses the internet, you can even call people who live abroad at no extra cost.
Be careful – if you're using data instead of a Wi-Fi connection, making calls over WhatsApp will use your data allowance.Video calling particularly uses a lot of data. If you go over this allowance, or if data isn't included in your allowance, you may be charged.
If you want to make a phone call using WhatsApp, follow these steps:
You can use WhatsApp groups to message multiple people at once. This is really handy if you want to chat with a few family members, neighbours, or members of a club or group, like a community club or a carers group.
Someone you know might add you to a WhatsApp group if they have your number, or you can set up your own group by following these steps:
Your messages and calls are automatically protected by something called 'end-to-end encryption'. This means that only you and the person you're chatting with can read what's sent.
But as with everything online, there are risks to be aware of – including scams, viruses and misinformation. Here are some tips for staying safe when using WhatsApp:
We offer support through our free advice line on 0800 678 1602. Lines are open 8am-7pm, 365 days a year. We also have specialist advisers at over 120 local Age UKs.
Age UK's handy advice on how to video call with family, friends and other loved ones.
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