# Voice & Video

> Voice channels and video calls with LiveKit on Plauder.Party

Voice channels and video calls with LiveKit on Plauder.Party


## How voice and video work

Text chat runs over **Matrix**. Voice and video on Plauder.Party use **LiveKit** - open-source infrastructure for real-time audio and video.

In supported rooms you can start a **voice channel** or **video call** without leaving the platform. Cinny integrates LiveKit directly.

## Requirements

- **Up-to-date browser** or Cinny desktop with microphone/camera access
- **HTTPS** - browsers only allow camera and microphone on secure connections (true on production)
- Stable **internet connection** - for video, aim for at least 1–2 Mbit/s upload

On first join the browser asks for **microphone** and optionally **camera** permission - allow access for the Plauder.Party domain.

## Join a voice channel

1. Open a room that supports voice/video (often shown with a phone or headset icon).
2. Click **Join** / **Join call** in the voice area of the room view.
3. Pick input and output devices if prompted.
4. **Mute:** Toggle the microphone icon to reduce background noise.

{{% alert context="info" text="Not every room has voice/video enabled. Ask moderators if you are unsure whether a room uses LiveKit." /%}}

## Turn on video

- After joining voice: enable the **camera** icon.
- Check **device settings** in the browser to select the correct camera first.
- If performance suffers: disable video and use audio only.

## Screen sharing

If your client offers screen sharing, use the control in the call bar. Share only windows without sensitive data (passwords, private tabs, notifications).

## Common issues

| Issue | Fix |
| --- | --- |
| No audio | Check output device; ensure the browser tab is not muted |
| Microphone not detected | Grant permission in browser/OS; close other tabs using the mic |
| Connection drops | Switch to wired/Wi‑Fi; disable video |
| Echo | Use headphones; avoid speakers for other participants |

See [Troubleshooting](troubleshooting.html) for more.

## Privacy note

Voice and video data is processed for transmission. Read the [privacy policy](/en/privacy.html) for how LiveKit and the operator handle it.