A
There are many options for free video conferencing (会议) apps. Here’s our short list of the best ones, where they shine and where they fall short.
Google Hangouts
The free video chat app from Google is a great example of a consumer-grade app. It integrates with Gmail and Google Calendar, making it easier for users to operate.
Up to 10 participants can join the live conference with a plug-in application. And as it doesn’t support dual stream video and content
some users complain that the video is not clear or reliable.
Skype
The app, developed by Microsoft, gives 10 users access to a conference. It’s worth noting that Microsoft is integrated with Skype.
A plug-in application is required. Advanced features are fascinating, but only available for paid subscription.
Zoom
The free video conferencing solution from Zoom provides a service for group video calls with over 100 participants. The Zoom Basic plan allows users to have 40-minute calls with a handful of features like screen sharing, local recording and camera filters.
A plug-in application is necessary. All calls, which are limited to 40 minutes or less, are secured.
Lifesize
Lifesize has been in the video conferencing industry for long. By setting up a free account with Lifesize, you can quickly start a free video call with up to 25 participants. It is web-based and doesn’t require downloads or an application on your devices. Guests can join the live call right from the website by clicking on your personal meeting ID link.
To use the additional features like 300-way calling, Microsoft integrations and 4K video conference room systems requires a paid subscription.
1. Which aspect of Google Hangouts is not satisfactory?
A. User capacity.
B. Video quality.
C. User-friendliness.
D. Technical support.
2. Which app offers a ten-minute conference service with 30 people for free?
A. Google Hangouts. B. Skype. C. Zoom. D. Lifesize.
3. What is special about Lifesize?
A. It integrates with Microsoft.
B. It is completely free of charge.
C. There is no time limit to its conferences.
D. No application is needed for participants.
【答案】1. B 2. C 3. D
【解析】
【分析】这是一篇说明文。文章详细说明了三款最好用的会议软件的优势和不足。
【详解】1.细节理解题。根据Google Hangouts部分第二段最后一句“And as it doesn’t support dual stream video and content, some users complain that the video is not clear or reliable.”（由于不支持双流视频和内容，一些用户抱怨视频不清晰或不可靠。）可知，Google Hangouts不令人满意的方面是视频质量。故选B。
2.细节理解题。根据Zoom部分第一段第一句“The free video conferencing solution from Zoom provides a service for group video calls with over 100 participants. ”（Zoom提供的免费视频会议解决方案提供100人以上的群组视频通话服务。）可知，Zoom可以免费提供100人以上的群组视频通话服务，根据第二句“The Zoom Basic plan allows users to have 40-minute calls with a handful of features like screen sharing, local recording and camera filters.”（Zoom Basic计划允许用户拨打40分钟的电话，并提供一些功能，如屏幕共享、本地录音和相机滤镜。）可知，Zoom应用程序提供30人免费的10分钟会议服务。故选C。
3.细节理解题。根据Lifesize部分“ It is web-based and doesn’t require downloads or an application on your devices. ”它是基于网络的，不需要在你的设备上下载或安装应用程序。根据Google Hangouts中的“ with a plug-in application”安装应用程序。根据Skype“A plug-in application is required. ”安装应用程序。根据Zoom“ A plug-in application is necessary.”安装应用程序。由此可知，Lifesize特别之处在于申请者无需安装应用程序。故选D。
