A selection of voice alternatives with different features and levels of privacy.
The first thing to try is VK Calls. Integrated into the popular Russian social network, this service is great for daily communication. It supports not only regular calls but also group video conferences with screen sharing. It's particularly convenient as it works both on computers and in the mobile app.
iPhone and iPad owners should definitely take advantage of FaceTime. This built-in Apple solution is renowned for its excellent video and audio quality, especially with a good internet connection. The app is intuitive and requires no additional setup.
For those who take privacy seriously, I recommend Signal. This open-source messenger uses reliable end-to-end encryption and supports both personal and group calls. Signal is particularly popular among journalists and activists due to its high level of data protection.
Another interesting option for privacy enthusiasts is the Swiss Threema. Its main advantage is that registration does not require a phone number, and all servers are located in Europe with its strict data protection laws. All calls and messages are encrypted by default.
Fans of decentralized technologies will like Element—a modern client for the Matrix protocol. This decentralized messenger ensures complete privacy thanks to its distributed architecture and uses WebRTC for high-quality video calls. It's especially appealing that there is no single control center.
For business negotiations, the European Wire is an excellent choice. This service was specifically designed for the corporate segment and offers multi-level encryption, group video conferences, and integration with work tools. Wire complies with strict European security standards.
Finally, for mass video conferences, it's worth paying attention to Google Meet. This service is well integrated with Gmail and other Google products, works directly in the browser, and can connect dozens of participants simultaneously. It's especially convenient for business meetings and family video calls.