So many people have webcams now, and many computers even come with them installed. The problem lies in actually using your webcam. I use Skype for video, while most of my family uses MSN/Windows Messenger. Since I have a Mac (and am the only one in my family who does), MSN just isn’t an option for me because the video option won’t work.
For that reason, I was so excited to learn about a new service – TokBox – that has solved my problem and lets me talk to anyone, anywhere, at anytime.
It only takes a minute to sign up, using a valid email address. After adjusting some settings (audio/microphone) the service worked perfectly. My microphone is inside my computer, so I have to use headphones or a Bluetooth headset, otherwise there is too much of an echo. But that doesn’t just happen with TokBox, it’s always been a problem.
When you want to talk to someone, you simply give them the link that TokBox provides you with when you sign up. They click the link and are automatically taken to your profile page, where with one click of the mouse, they can call you, leave you a video message, or IM you. You can decide exactly who is allowed to contact you, such as only people on your friends list, for example.
TokBox has TONS of features. It lets you:
- host a live video chat on your website
- email video greeting cards, complete with holiday templates (love the turkeys!)
- participate in conference calls with people on your friend’s list
- create public posts for everyone to see
- easily add your IM/email contacts, search for others, and invite friends
- and even download a free desktop client, so you don’t miss any calls
When you go back to the TokBox website, it automatically loads your page in about 5 seconds without the need to login again. You can see your missed calls, check your inbox for video emails, and see if any of your friends are online.
To sum it up, I really like TokBox. The interface is so easy to use, and the fact that there’s nothing to download is a huge selling point. Now my mom can see her granddaughters LIVE from her computer at work.
You can embed a chat window on your social network profiles, blog, or personal web page. I’m planning on putting it on my Facebook and MySpace pages, but still debating whether or not to do so on my blog. For now, I’ll leave you with my link: https://www.tokbox.com/NoHands. Feel free to click on over and say hi!
** Thank you to Mom Central for introducing me to this wonderful service!! **
Thanks for the Tokbox review!