When you can't see your friends and family in person, you can still visit with them by using a device like a smartphone or iPad. Many phones, tablets and computers have free and easy ways to connect with others.
Use the directions below to learn how to have a virtual visit by using common video chat apps.
Note: Your virtual visits with family and friends are private and will stay in the room.
Connecting with loved ones using your device
- Find an app for that: If your smartphone, tablet or computer has a camera there is a good chance you have an app already installed to connect with your loved ones virtually. You and the person you are trying to connect with must use the same app.
- Connect to our guest Wi-Fi: To use the video feature of the app you have selected, connect to our guest Wi-Fi named D-H Guest.
- Video chat, call or text your loved ones.
Common video chat apps on smartphones and devices
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Apple devices:
FaceTime
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Android devices:
Google Duo
If your device has a camera but does not have FaceTime or Google Duo, you can download one of the following apps to connect with loved ones via video, voice, or text:
Using FaceTime on Apple devices
- Open the FaceTime app.
- In the "To" field, select the person you want to contact:
- If the person’s phone number or email address is saved in your contacts, tap the plus button, start typing the person’s name, and select the name when you see it pop up.
- If the person's contact information is not saved in your contacts, tap the plus button, type the person’s phone number or email address, and then tap the return button.
- Once your contact is in the “To” field, tap the phone icon to make a voice-only call or the video camera icon to video chat.
Using Google Duo on Android devices
- Open the Google Duo app.
- Tap New Call.
- Tap Search contacts or dial.
- Select the person you want to contact:
- If the person's phone number or email address is saved in your contacts, begin to type the person’s name and select the name when you see it pop up.
- If the person's contact information is not saved in your contacts, type in their phone number or email address.
- Once you select the person's name, you will have the option to select voice, video, or message.
Note: If you only see “invite” when you select the person you are trying to reach, then the person does not have the Google Duo app installed on their device and may not be able to connect with you through Google Duo. Please see "Common video chat apps on smartphones and devices," above, for other possible apps you can try.