Start or join a video call

Video Chat makes a timed video call between two people in the browser. Choose a length, then Start a new call: 2 or 5 minutes on the free plan, or 2, 5 or 10 minutes with Pro or the Team plan. A length your plan does not include is shown but cannot be chosen; see Plans, limits, and billing.

The call shows a four-letter call code and Copy invite link. Send either to the other person. To join, enter the code on the Video Chat page and choose Join call, or open the link. Both people need to be signed in to Magpie.

The clock starts when the second person joins. The call ends when its time runs out or someone chooses End call. During the call, the buttons on the call mute your microphone and turn your camera off. A call is not recorded and does not create a booking.

A call code is for one call: once two people are in it, nobody else can join. Codes also expire, so start a new call to talk again later.

In the mobile app

Choose Video Chat from More. Choose a call length and Start Video Chat, or enter a code and choose Join Video Chat. Allow camera and microphone access when the phone asks. During the call, Share invite in the call's menu sends the link from the share sheet, and Leave call ends it.

Scheduled calls

A scheduled call is a Video Chat call at a set time for up to 6 people. Only Hiring creates them: scheduling an interview on Magpie Video Chat creates one; see Schedule interviews. Invited team members open it while signed in, from the interview or from the link in their email. A guest opens it from the private link in their invitation and does not need an account. It can be joined only from 15 minutes before its start until 30 minutes after its end, and the clock on the call shows the time left. Scheduled calls are available on Pro and Team plans. They are not in the mobile app.

Camera, microphone and connection

Allow camera and microphone access when the browser asks. If they do not start, check the browser's permission in the address bar, the operating system's camera and microphone settings, and whether another app is using the device. If both people can see themselves but never connect to each other, Contact support.