During the current global situation, with many confined to their homes and unable to see close friends and family members due to the coronavirus outbreak, Houseparty has become a viral app sensation. Houseparty makes it easier than ever to video and audio call with far-off loved ones, allowing one-on-one and group calls. In this article, we will explain how to set up a Houseparty account and all the necessary steps involved so that you, too, can get on board with this new and highly popular way to stay in contact during the lockdown.

How is it different than others?

Unlike many previous video calling programs, such as Skype and Zoom, Houseparty offers unique and additional features to its users during their calls. These features include quizzes and games that call for participants to be able to play together. These features set it apart from a crowd of similar apps and launched the popularity that it has received. Despite being around since 2016, the app has seen a recent burst in popularity, now the most widely used it has ever been, propelling itself into popular culture. With so many signing up for this app during the lockdown, you will not want to miss out on this virtual phenomenon while it rages.

Step 1

The first and most crucial step to setting up an account is downloading the Houseparty app onto your chosen phone or device. Though Houseparty is primarily used on smartphones, it also operates well on computers. Houseparty is available on Android, iOS, MacOS, and Chrome. You can find it through a simple search on the relevant App Store for the device that will be used primarily. On a Chromebook or Windows PC, Houseparty can also be accessed through an in-browser extension for the browser “Google Chrome.”

Step 2

Next, you must create your unique Houseparty account. You will need to provide your full name and email address and choose your Houseparty username and password for this unique account. Considering that the app has been around since 2016, many primary account names will be taken, so you will need to get creative to find one all of your own. Following this, you will be asked to provide your phone number, after which a four-digit code will be sent confirming this information.

Step 3

To start or join a call on Houseparty, you must swipe up on the screen. This will display all of your recent contacts on the app and any calls that your friends may already be a part of. You can use the search bar to search for and add new friends on the app and invite them to any current calls you are in.

Step 4

Simply tap the phone icon to begin a call, or tap the wave icon to send your friend a notification that you would like to do a call of “party” with them soon. Additionally, the Houseparty app invites users to connect their phone contacts, and their Facebook accounts to find friends that have already created their accounts. Houseparty will automatically recognize those accounts that have already been made by contacts and friends, allowing immediate connections. However, this step can be skipped by simply tapping the Skip button in the top-right corner of the screen when prompted, don’t worry!