Whether for business meetings, online courses, or virtual get-togethers with friends, Zoom offers a variety of features that facilitate communication. In this guide, you will learn everything important about Zoom, its functions, and how to make optimal use of it.
Main Insights
Zoom is an American company founded in 2011. It provides simple solutions for video and audio calls, screen sharing, chat functions, and meeting recording. Zoom offers a free basic version that is limited to 40 minutes for group conversations.
What is Zoom?
Zoom is a communication tool launched in 2011 by Eric Yuan, a former engineer at Cisco Systems. The first release took place in 2013. Zoom's logo features a striking, rounded blue square with a white camera, immediately indicating its function as a digital communication tool. Zoom quickly became one of the leading platforms for online conferences, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Key Features of Zoom
Zoom offers a variety of features that enhance digital communication:
1. Online Communication
One of Zoom's basic features is the chat function. Here you can easily log in, activate or deactivate your microphone, and communicate via text chat.
2. Video and Voice Calls
In addition to text chats, you can also make video calls. Additionally, it is possible to make voice calls only, even if the camera and microphone are not activated. This flexibility is one of Zoom's great advantages.
3. Meeting Scheduling
Another outstanding feature of Zoom is the ability to schedule meetings in advance. You can set the date, send the participation link, and invite participants to log into the meeting at a specific time.
4. Screen Sharing
If you want to show something on your screen, Zoom provides an easy way to share your screen. Simply click on "Share screen," and other participants can see what is happening on your screen. This is a particularly useful feature for sharing presentations or important information.
5. Meeting Recording
With Zoom, you can record meetings. You can record both the screen and the audio, so you can refer back to the content later. This is a handy feature for capturing important information.
Advantages of Zoom
Zoom offers a number of advantages that set it apart from other platforms:
1. Free Use of One-on-One Conversations
You can have unlimited duration one-on-one conversations without paying any fees.
2. Limited Time for Group Conversations
There is a limitation of 40 minutes for group conversations, which is sufficient for many occasions.
3. Ease of Use
Zoom's user interface is intuitively designed. Even if you have little experience with such tools, you will quickly find the functions you need.
4. Availability of Apps
Zoom is available on both the PlayStore and the App Store, allowing you to participate in meetings on mobile as well.
Zoom Pricing Structure
Zoom offers various pricing packages:
1. Basic (Free)
With this package, you can host up to 100 participants, but the duration of group conversations is limited to 40 minutes.
2. Pro (€140 annually)
With this package, you have unlimited meeting duration and can integrate up to 100 participants. Additionally, you will receive 1GB of cloud storage for recordings.
3. Business (€190 annually)
From then on, you can work with up to 300 participants and get your own domain.
4. Enterprise (€190 annually)
This package is designed for companies with up to 500 participants and offers unlimited cloud storage.
Summary
Zoom is a versatile and user-friendly tool for video and audio communication. With features like chat function, video calls, meeting scheduling, and screen sharing, Zoom provides a comprehensive solution for digital meetings. The different pricing options and the ability to use both free and paid features make it an attractive choice for users with various needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I use Zoom for free?The free version allows unlimited one-on-one conversations, while group conversations are limited to 40 minutes.
Can I schedule meetings in advance?Yes, you can schedule meetings in advance and send the invitation links.
How many participants can join a Zoom meeting?In the free version, up to 100 participants can join a meeting.
Is there a mobile app for Zoom?Yes, Zoom is available on both the PlayStore and the App Store.
How much does the Pro version of Zoom cost?The Pro version costs €140 per year and provides unlimited meeting duration and cloud storage.