Is Live Video Calling Worth It for Your App?
Blog post from Stream
Integrating live video calling into an app can enhance user experience and retention by fostering real-time communication, a feature beneficial for industries such as education, health services, remote work, dating, gaming, marketplaces, sports, and fitness. However, developers must carefully assess whether video calling aligns with app functions and user expectations, as unnecessary implementation could complicate the interface. Building this functionality in-house involves setting up backend infrastructure, signaling servers, and communication protocols like WebRTC, but it can be resource-intensive, diverting focus from core app competencies. Alternatively, leveraging APIs and SDKs offers a quicker and more cost-effective solution, providing essential features such as call management, participant interaction, and security compliance, while minimizing ongoing maintenance. Common challenges include ensuring cross-platform compatibility, scalability, and robust security measures to protect user data and maintain privacy standards.