The Echo Show is Amazon’s smart display that comes with a screen and camera, allowing you to make video calls. There are several video calling apps available that work with Echo Show, giving you options to connect with friends and family.
Amazon’s Built-In Video Calling
The Echo Show comes with Amazon’s own video calling service built-in. This allows you to make video calls to anyone with an Amazon account and a device that supports video calling, such as another Echo Show or the Alexa app on a mobile device.
To use the built-in video calling, simply say “Alexa, call [contact name]” to call other Echo device owners or Skype users. You can also tap the “Call” icon in the top left corner of the Echo Show screen and select a contact to call.
Amazon’s video calling provides decent quality video and audio. It’s easy to use since it’s integrated into Alexa and doesn’t require downloading any additional apps or services.
Skype
Skype is one of the most popular video chat apps, and it’s available on Echo Show. To use Skype, you’ll need to connect your Skype account in the Alexa app.
Once connected, you can say things like “Alexa, call Mom on Skype” to start a video call. You can also use Skype to call mobile numbers or landlines for a low fee.
Skype provides good quality video up to 1080p resolution. Features include video messaging, screen sharing, and group video calls for up to 25 people.
Zoom
Zoom is a wildly popular video conferencing platform for both business and personal use. The Zoom app is available on Echo Show, providing access to HD video and audio calls.
To use Zoom, enable the skill in the Alexa app. You can then join Zoom meetings by saying things like “Alexa, join my meeting.” You can also start an instant meeting by saying “Alexa, start a Zoom meeting.”
Zoom allows up to 100 participants with a 40 minute time limit for the free version. It provides quality video and the ability to share screens and chat during meetings.
Drop In
Drop In is Amazon’s instant calling feature for Echo devices. It allows you to immediately connect with supported Echo devices in your household without the other person having to answer.
To use Drop In, say “Alexa, drop in on [device name]” to instantly start a call on that device. Keep in mind that both devices must have Drop In enabled and be part of the same Amazon household.
Drop In only works between Amazon Echo devices. It provides lower quality video but quick and easy connection between Echo Shows in your home.
Other Video Calling Options
There are some other video chat apps that work on Echo Show with limited functionality:
- Google Duo – Can receive but not initiate video calls
- Viber – Can receive but not initiate video calls
- Snapchat – Can view but not send video messages
While you can’t fully use these apps to make outgoing calls, they do provide additional options for receiving video chats on your Echo Show.
Comparison of Video Calling Apps for Echo Show
| App | Video Quality | Max Participants | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Video Calling | Decent | 1-on-1 | Built-in, easy to use |
| Skype | Up to 1080p HD | 25 | Screen sharing, group calls |
| Zoom | HD | 100 | Meeting features |
| Drop In | Low | 1-on-1 | Instant calling |
Conclusion
The built-in video calling through Alexa provides a simple and convenient way to make video calls on your Echo Show. Skype and Zoom allow connecting with more people and offer additional features like screen sharing.
Drop In provides instant calling between Echo devices in your home. And apps like Google Duo allow you to receive calls from their broader platforms.
So whether you want to chat with family, connect for business meetings, or enable instant home calls, there are great options available to meet your video calling needs on the Echo Show.
The versatility of video apps for Echo Show makes it easy to stay visually connected from the smart display. With excellent built-in options from Amazon and integration with leading platforms like Skype and Zoom, the Echo Show is a communication hub and stand-in for a regular video-enabled computer or smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Skype video calls on Echo Show?
Yes, you can make Skype-to-Skype video calls on Echo Show. Connect your Skype account in the Alexa app, then use commands like “Alexa, call Mom on Skype” to start a video call. Skype allows video calls with up to 25 participants.
Does FaceTime work on Echo Show?
No, FaceTime is not available on Echo Show. FaceTime only works on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads and Macs. There is no FaceTime app for Echo Show or other non-Apple devices.
Can I join Zoom meetings with Echo Show?
Yes, you can join Zoom cloud meetings, webinars and conference calls using the Zoom app on Echo Show. Enable the Zoom skill in Alexa, then use commands like “Alexa, join my meeting” to enter scheduled Zoom meetings.
How do I make a video call on Echo Show?
The easiest way to make a video call is to use the built-in calling through Alexa. Just say “Alexa, call [contact name]” and Alexa will connect your video call. You can also use a skill like Skype or Zoom and say “Alexa, call [contact] on [app name].”
Can I call a phone number from Echo Show?
Yes, you can call regular phone numbers from Echo Show using the Skype app. Connect your Skype account and add funds if needed. Then say “Alexa, call [number] on Skype” to make phone and mobile calls from your Echo Show.
Setting up Video Calling on Echo Show
How to enable Drop In
To use Amazon’s Drop In feature:
- Open the Alexa app and go to Communicate > Drop In.
- Tap the toggle next to each device you want to allow Drop In on.
- On the receiving device, go to Settings > Communication > Drop In and enable the feature.
Now you can instantly connect between those devices by saying “Alexa, drop in on…”
How to link Skype
To use Skype on your Echo Show:
- In the Alexa app, go to Skills & Games > Your Skills.
- Search for the Skype skill and select Enable.
- Sign into your Skype account when prompted.
Skype will now be linked and you can make calls by saying “Alexa, call [contact] on Skype.”
How to connect Zoom
To use the Zoom app on Echo Show:
- In the Alexa app, go to Skills & Games > Your Skills.
- Search for the Zoom skill and select Enable.
- Sign into your Zoom account when prompted.
You can now join scheduled Zoom meetings by voice with commands like “Alexa, join my meeting.”
Tips for Making Video Calls from Echo Show
Place your device properly
Make sure your Echo Show is placed stable on a flat surface and tilted upwards for the best view of your face during video calls.
Adjust the camera
You can tilt the Echo Show’s camera upwards or downwards to adjust the framing and view during video calls.
Use good lighting
Proper lighting is important for video quality. Make sure you have a light source in front and not directly behind you when on video calls.
Use speaker mode
Speaker mode projects sound forward from the device. This provides better audio for video calls compared to the upward-facing standard mode.
Position yourself close
Sit or stand a few feet away from your Echo Show screen for the best camera focus and video quality during calls.
Adjust microphone settings
In challenging environments, you can enable beamforming in the Echo Show settings to help focus the microphones on your voice.
Connect to strong internet
A steady high-speed internet connection is important for smooth video calls. Position your Echo Show near your router for the strongest WiFi signal.
Troubleshooting Echo Show Video Calling
Echo Show says “video calling unavailable”
If your Echo Show says video calling is unavailable, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Make sure your internet connection is working properly.
- Restart your Echo Show and router if needed.
- Check if Amazon services are having an outage.
- Make sure the recipient’s device supports video calling.
- Double check that video calling is enabled in your Alexa app settings.
Poor video or audio quality
For poor video or audio quality, try these steps:
- Move closer to your Echo Show.
- Adjust camera position and seating location.
- Enable beamforming mic setting.
- Switch to speaker mode.
- Improve internet connection and minimize other network usage.
Can’t sign into Skype
If you can’t sign into Skype, attempt these steps:
- Make sure your account credentials are correct.
- Check for outage on Skype network.
- Disable the skill and re-enable it to relink account.
- Contact Skype support for account issues.
Zoom skill not linking account
If the Zoom skill won’t link your account, try these tips:
- Verify your Zoom login information is correct.
- Disable the Zoom skill and re-enable it.
- Make sure your Echo device is supported.
- Contact Zoom help if it still won’t link.
Summary
The Echo Show makes it easy to stay connected face-to-face with family and friends. With Amazon’s built-in video calling, popular third-party apps like Skype and Zoom, and instant Drop In connections, you have versatile options for video chatting.
Make sure to position your Echo Show properly, adjust settings for optimal video and audio, and troubleshoot issues as needed. Follow best practices and you’ll enjoy clear video calls from the convenience of your Echo device.