Houseparty has emerged as the second biggest winner during the COVID-19 lockdown. While Zoom may be hogging all the limelight, Houseparty is making serious play for one of the best apps in the market. It is important to note that Houseparty is not a new application. The app was previously known as Meerkat and Houseparty is just a reincarnation. It has been around since 2018 but has caught the attention in a big way now.
With most people now locked in their homes, they are looking for new avenues to meet their friends and families. Houseparty is one app that brings people together in a very unique way. The app was co-founded by Sima Sistani, who was elevated from COO to CEO in March last year. While it started as a video chat app, it has ventured into gaming and entertainment as well. Houseparty app is available on Android, iOS, Chrome OS and macOS. Here is how to use the Houseparty app and play games.
How to use Houseparty app
Step 1: This is self explanatory. To get started, download the Houseparty app from Google Play Store or App Store. If you are on desktop platforms like Chrome OS or macOS, you can get the app from those platforms as well. Windows users, sorry, you are out of luck.
Step 2: Once you have downloaded the app, create an account. You will need to enter your name, email address and a personal username. While creating the account, Houseparty also asks for your mobile number, which can be confirmed using a four-digit one-time confirmation code.
Step 3: Remember that not all of your contacts will be on Houseparty. So, we recommend connecting your contacts to the app. Either you can let the app access your contacts to add friends automatically. Or you can even connect your friends from Facebook or Snapchat.
Step 4: The above steps are one-time use and the screen that you see now is your primary interface. Swipe up on the screen to start or join a Houseparty. This screen will show friends you have recently added or spoken to. It will also show parties that your friends might be part of at any time.
Step 5: Tap the phone icon to start the call. You can also tap on the wave icon to send your friend a notification. This will let them know that you want to do video chat. You can also search for specific contacts and chat with them.
How to play games on Houseparty app
Step 1: You can also play games on Houseparty. For that, you need to start or join a call first.
Step 2: During the call, click the dice icon in the corner to see game options
Step 3: Select Heads Up, Trivia, Chips and Guac or others to get started playing with your friends.
Is this the best app out there?
Houseparty is one app with great features and beautiful user interface. However, it does have a caveat. The fact that it is limited to 8 people in a group chat could be a bummer. Google Duo allows users to add up to 12 people in a single group call. Houseparty is ideal for those looking for top quality video calling experience and great user interface. With its gaming suite, the app only becomes more useful and functional. While there were reports last week that it compromises third-party accounts, Houseparty has refuted those claims.
