Young woman using smartphone for video call

Video chat has made a huge impact on the way we interact with each other. From chatting with distant friends to connecting an office of coworkers to boardrooms across the country, video chat is a powerful personal and business tool. 

However, video chat is still changing. While previously only a few big platforms dominated the market, that’s rapidly changing. Not only are new apps challenging these long-standing platforms, but they’re also disrupting the market entirely. In this guide, we’ll discuss how the world of video chat is changing thanks to new brands. 

1. Augmented Reality in Video Chat

Video chat is no longer just a way to talk to people. It’s also a social media and entertainment platform in itself. Augmented reality really started to take off thanks to Snapchat, a messaging app that incorporates video into its strategy. 

What is augmented reality? It’s the process of adding computer-generated images to the users’ view of the real world. From face filters to fun effects, augmented reality is changing how people interact with video chat platforms. 

2. Focus on Business

Video chat is no longer just for personal use. It’s made its way into the office, and it’s here to stay. As companies go more digital with their strategy, and outsourcing becomes increasingly common, video chat keeps people connected no matter the location. 

Audio-only conference calls are outdated and ineffective. Not only is video a more convenient way to communicate, but 98% of professionals agree video conferencing helps build strong work relationships. More and more brands are creating video products specifically for businesses. 

3. Boost in Customer Service

Another way video chat is changing is in terms of customer service. Video chat isn’t just used for personal relationships, as we said before. It’s now also a way to connect with customers. 

A step up from live chat software, video platforms allow customers to get their questions answered by brands in a new way. This new personalized approach is a part of the new era of customer experience. 

4. Target Gen Z

As Gen Z becomes a larger part of the market, so does video chat. Companies hoping to cater to younger people will need to pay particular attention to video chat. Because younger consumers are already so used to this technology, they’re demanding more options. 

Gen Z and Millennials are both innate tech users. They’re masters of screentime, and they don’t shy away from video software as a way to stay socially connected. 

5. Break Cultural Barriers

Finally, new video chat brands are breaking down cultural barriers. Social platforms are becoming increasingly about meeting new people, not just staying within an existing network. Video chat software is connecting others at a faster rate than we’ve ever seen before, and the world feels smaller than ever. 

Real people’s chat apps connect users based on shared interests. There’s a focus on building real connections and overcoming the typical stigma associated with social media. 

New World of Video Chat

It’s easy to see how video chat has changed in the past few years. It went from not existing 15 years ago to being just another normal part of our lives today. From the office to home, video chat is helping people stay connected. 

New brands are disrupting this industry by offering new technology solutions, reaching greater audiences, and breaking down barriers. It’s only going to become a bigger part of our lives in the next few years. Where will video take us next?