AppDate: Google plugs into video chatting

In this week’s AppDate, SEAN BACHER highlights Google Duo video chat, xRapid, Kaspersky Anti-Ransomware Tool for Business, FitKey and MessageBird’s Chat API.

Google Duo video chat

Google Duo provides simple one-to-one video calling directly from a smartphone. The app features a knock-knock option that gives a preview of incoming calls from one’s contacts. It works over both Wi-Fi and cellular networks, and will hand over a call from one to the other should the user be moving about.  According to Google,  the app has been optimised to connect faster than most other video apps. To ensure it stays in sync, it will work over slower connections like 2G. All calls are encrypted and users don’t need a Google account to make and receive calls.

Platform: Android and iOS

Stockists: Visit the app store linked to your device.

Expect to pay: A free download.

xRapid

Digicape has extended its range of healthcare solutions with the local availability of xRapid. The app uses a combination of digital imaging and artificial intelligence that allows doctors to diagnose the early onset of tuberculosis and malaria without the need to take blood samples to a lab. The solution includes an iPhone, the xRapid app and equipment that will work on most compound and field microscopes. The solution is robust, making it great for health professionals and aid workers in remote areas with limited resources.

Platform: iOS

Stockists: Visit www.rapid.org

Expect to pay: Prices are available on application

Kaspersky Anti-Ransomware Tool for Business

Kaspersky’s Anti-Ransomware Tool for Business offers complimentary security to protect corporate users from ransomware. To identify ransomware behaviour patterns and protect Windows-based endpoints, the app leverages two other products: Kaspersky Security Network and Kaspersky System Watcher. System Watcher’s capabilities include the possibility of blocking and roll-back of harmful changes. Kaspersky Security Network is a cloud-based service dedicated to processing depersonalised cybersecurity-related data streams from millions of voluntary participants around the world.

Platform: Android and iOS

Stockists: Visit the store linked to your device.

Expect to pay: A free download.

FitKey

FitKey, a local fitness startup that electronically pairs those wanting to find exercise with classes and gyms in their area. Fitkey members simply log in to the FitKey mobile app or website, browse all classes and activities available, and then reserve a class they want to attend in their area.

Platform: Android, iOS or any Internet browser.

Stockists: Visit www.fitkey.co.za for registration instructions.

Expect to pay: R450 per month with access to various studios and classes nationwide.

MessageBird Chat API

MessageBird’s latest app now integrates chat applications like WhatsApp, WeChat, and Facebook Chat directly into their own CRM tools, like Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics and Zendesk. From there, users can send and receive text, audio, images, videos and can also share their location for a better customer experience. Furthermore, once the Chat API is integrated, newer chat applications are automatically added, from which users can choose.

Platform: Most popular CRM platforms.

Stockists: Visit www message bird.com

Expect to pay: A variety of pricing options are available depending on the number of messages being sent and received as well as where the target audience is located.