The Future of Video Calls: 5 Trends Discuss

The future of video calls is likely to be shaped by several emerging technologies that will enhance the quality, interactivity, and accessibility of online communication. Here are some of the trends that may influence the future of video calls:

Holograms

Holograms are three-dimensional images that can be projected in the air or on a surface, creating a realistic and immersive experience for the viewers. Holograms can be used for video calls to simulate the presence of a person or an object in a remote location, making the conversation more natural and engaging. For example, Microsoft has developed a technology called Holoportation that allows users to see, hear, and interact with holograms of other people in real time. Holograms can also be used for entertainment, education, and health purposes, such as watching live concerts, learning from virtual teachers, or consulting with doctors.

VR and AR

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are technologies that create simulated or enhanced environments for the users, respectively. VR and AR can be used for video calls to provide a more immersive and interactive experience, allowing the users to feel like they are in the same place as the other participants. For example, Facebook has developed a social VR platform called Horizon that lets users create and explore virtual worlds with their friends. VR and AR can also be used for collaboration, gaming, and education, such as working on a project, playing a game, or visiting a museum with others.

AI and ML

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are technologies that enable machines to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as understanding, reasoning, and learning. AI and ML can be used for video calls to improve the quality, efficiency, and accessibility of online communication. For example, Google has developed a feature called Live Captions that automatically generates captions for video calls, making them more accessible for people who are deaf or hard of hearing. AI and ML can also be used for translation, transcription, and personalization, such as translating speech or text, transcribing audio or video, or customizing the appearance or background of the video call.

5G and Cloud

5G and cloud are technologies that enable faster and more reliable data transmission and storage, respectively. 5G and cloud can be used for video calls to enhance the performance, quality, and security of online communication. For example, 5G can provide higher bandwidth, lower latency, and greater coverage for video calls, enabling smoother and clearer video and audio quality. Cloud can provide scalable, flexible, and cost-effective solutions for video calls, enabling more features and functionalities, such as recording, streaming, and sharing.

Social and Environmental Impact

The social and environmental impact of video calls is the effect that online communication has on society and the environment, respectively. Video calls can have positive and negative impacts on both aspects, depending on how they are used and managed. For example, video calls can have positive social impacts, such as reducing loneliness, increasing social inclusion, and fostering collaboration and innovation. Video calls can also have positive environmental impacts, such as reducing travel, saving energy, and lowering emissions. However, video calls can also have negative social impacts, such as increasing stress, reducing privacy, and creating digital divide. Video calls can also have negative environmental impacts, such as consuming resources, generating waste, and contributing to e-waste.