Video calling is a typical form of communication in every industry as it is one of the easiest and safest ways to communicate. Several businesses opt for video chat apps and integrate real-time streaming chat software, aimed at helping website visitors communicate easily and effectively. This article shows how an organization can choose a video call API for android, iOS, and web apps. And the factors to consider before opting for the best APIs and SDKs. Prior to that, let’s focus on the basics of API and SDK.
API vs. SDK: What’s the difference?
SDK or Software Development Kit is a set of tools, protocols, and procedures used to develop interactive applications. It includes directives used by developers to create structured systems and applications. So in order to create a video calling SDK for Android, developers will need an Android SDK toolkit. Similarly, to build an iOS app, developers will need an iOS SDK, and for VMware platform integration, VMware SDK is required. Likewise, to build apps for wireless products, developers will need Nordic SDK.
API or Application Programming Interface is easy and instant to use and allows effective communication between two applications. It is a set of functions and programs that enable communication between two applications and allows data access with external software components and operating systems. APIs work as a carrier between the user and the applications.
What is the need for Video Call APIs and SDKs?
Video call APIs and SDKs help build and streamline the entire process of cross-platform communication, through video conferencing software or video chat applications:
Faster Software Delivery — SDKs and APIs are synonymous with quick implementation and advanced features for fast live streaming.
Saving Resources — SDKs and APIs allow access to a wide range of code libraries, samples, and documentation.
Increase Productivity —APIs and SDKs optimize the applications and increase productivity.
How does Video Chat work?
A person communicates with another person through an interface. This interface allows the reception and transmission of voice and visual signals so that the users can communicate on a real-time basis. Video chat works with the help of technologies such as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Web Real-Time Communications (WebRTC video chat) or WebRTC video chat app, Signaling Server, TURN Server, and STUN Server.
5 Key Points to Consider While Choosing a Video Call API for Web and Mobile Apps
1. Browser Compatibility:
Browsers are different and encounter different technological challenges that need to be addressed differently. While choosing a video calling API or SDK, check if the opted technology is compatible with multiple web browsers, and also with iOS and Android. Choose a video call SDK and API that offers a complete set of features and automatically caters to all browsers. WebRTC video call technology is compatible and supports all products of Google, Apple, and Microsoft.
2. Browser and Platform Updates:
Conventional APIs aren’t equipped to handle browser or platform updates. Web browsers and mobile devices may update on their own, and then you would think it’s great to have new functionality without having to remember to download any new software for an update.
However, it becomes quite challenging with video calls. This is because video calls may freeze all of a sudden when a browser is set on auto-play mode. If the developers are not aware of this, they will need to undo the codes they have already written.
The full-featured, non-conventional APIs are the best for a smooth video call. Full-featured high-level APIs can easily handle the updates and manage both the audio and video call elements for an uninterrupted video call.
3. Bandwidth Management:
Choosing the right web-based video chat APIs or SDKs requires checking if the given technology can manage bandwidth. Developers face network issues, create a benchmark for quality, regulate each live video stream, and address bandwidth. If the selected API or SDK can manage bandwidth, developers can concentrate on other factors such as enhancing communication, uplifting user experience, and adding more features.
4. UI and Layout Design:
Depending on the requirements of the organization — developers must also comprehend the UI and layout designs offered or restricted by group video chat app. Flexible APIs or SDKs offer customization with in-built UI design options and designer-friendly widgets. Check the scalability and upgrades, while designing and make sure that the opted video calling API or SDK delivers the same.
5. HIPAA Compliance:
HIPAA compliance is a norm ensuring that apps adhere to legit data usage to protect the disclosure of health-related information. It is regulated by the Office for Civil Rights. It is an essential credential for apps that are connected to Healthcare Services. Therefore HIPAA compliant APIs or SDKs guarantee that healthcare apps are built in compliance with the law.
There are many video chat API providers for voice and video calls.
Here are the 5+ Best Video Chat API for Mobile or Web Platforms:
- CONTUS MirrorFly – 150+ real-time in-app chat features to enhance any existing 3rd party apps for personalized conversation across any device.
- Daily.co – Supports flexible recording options with transcriptions.
- Enablex.io – Extensive video chat experience for users.
- Agora – Easy to use, scalable, and reliable
- Cometchat – Free for personal usage, low latency with high-quality video calls
- PubNub – built for conferences, virtual conversations, meetings, and enterprise entities.
- Sinch – Instant messaging SDK and API to the iOS, Android, and Web Applications.
Conclusion
Video calling is the easiest and safest way to communicate across organizations and is also the toughest technology to master. Without a professional service that offers a complete video chat solution, you cannot accomplish your goals. We have given you all the insights you will need to choose the best video call service, and provider.
Whichever API or SDK you consider, your ultimate goal is to establish an effective video calling service for your organizational goals.
