The best alternatives to Telegram and WhatsApp: Which apps can you use for video calls?

Against the backdrop of video call restrictions in Telegram and WhatsApp in Russia, users are looking for accessible and convenient alternatives for communication. The editor-in-chief of Ferra.ru, Yevgeny Kharitonov, named the best services available in Russia that support video calls and do not require roaming fees.

Here’s a look at eight platforms, their features, and their advantages.

Why Are Alternatives Needed?
In August 2025, Roskomnadzor confirmed the partial blocking of video calls in WhatsApp and Telegram, as well as the complete blocking of Discord, Viber, and Signal. Skype has ceased operations. These restrictions are linked to regulatory measures and outdated infrastructure, forcing users to seek new solutions for video communication.

Best Video Call Services
Yevgeny Kharitonov highlighted eight platforms that work in Russia and offer free video calls with various functions. Here’s the overview:

1. Matrix

• Description: A decentralized open-source platform offering high privacy.
• Advantages: Free, supports chats, calls, and video conferences. Ideal for those who value privacy.
• Availability: Download from matrix.org or app stores (Google Play, App Store).
• Features: No central server, making it resistant to blocking.

2. WeChat

• Description: A Chinese super app combining chats, video calls, payments, and mini-apps.
• Advantages: Free, built-in translator, wide functionality. Popular in Russia due to the absence of blocks.
• Availability: Google Play, App Store.
• Features: Suitable for personal and business communication, integrates with services.

3. Zoom

• Description: A video conferencing platform that rose to fame during the pandemic.
• Advantages: Free for meetings up to 40 minutes, suitable for business and education.
• Availability:us, Google Play, App Store.
• Features: Reliable stability, supports large groups (up to 100 participants in the free version).

4. Microsoft Teams

• Description: A corporate messenger with video call features and Office 365 integration.
• Advantages: Free for basic use, ideal for work meetings.
• Availability:com, Google Play, App Store.
• Features: Convenient for teamwork, supports collaborative document editing.

5. Snapchat

• Description: A messenger focused on photo and video content, including video calls.
• Advantages: Free, known for its filters and disappearing messages.
• Availability: Google Play, App Store.
• Features: Popular among young people, less functional for business communication.

6. Google Meet

• Description: Google’s video conferencing service integrated with Gmail and Google Calendar.
• Advantages: Free, easy to use, supports group calls.
• Availability: Google Play, App Store, web version via meet.google.com.
• Features: Convenient for Google ecosystem users, no separate installation required.

7. VK Video Calls

• Description: Built-in video call feature in the VKontakte social network.
• Advantages: Free, supports group calls, available via the VK app.
• Availability: Google Play, App Store.
• Features: Easy access for VK users, no separate registration required.

8. Max

• Description: A Russian messenger developed by VK, with planned integration with Gosuslugi (State Services).
• Advantages: Free, locally focused, resistant to blocking.
• Availability: Google Play, App Store.
• Features: Expected expansion of functions, including government service integration.

Context and Restrictions
Video call restrictions in WhatsApp and Telegram are linked to Russian regulatory measures, including a ban on the use of foreign messengers by government agencies and companies starting June 1, 2025. Despite registering a representative office in Russia in July 2025, Telegram remains under pressure due to fraudulent threats, requiring caution when adding contacts. Fully blocked services like Discord, Viber, and Signal are unavailable, and Skype has ceased to exist.

In Short…
In 2025, Russians have many alternatives to Telegram and WhatsApp for video calls. Matrix is ideal for those who value privacy, WeChat for universal communication, Zoom and Microsoft Teams for business meetings, and Snapchat and Google Meet for quick, casual calls. VK Video Calls and Max, as local solutions, offer convenience and resistance to blocking.