What is WindowSwap?
WindowSwap calls itself the calmest place on the internet. It was started during the 2020 lockdowns by Singapore-based couple Sonali Ranjit and Vaishnav Balasubramaniam, who were tired of seeing only their own view and asked friends to share theirs.
Each window is a roughly ten-minute video filmed by a real person looking out of their own window, with the natural background sound left in. Press the button and you jump to a random window: a rainy street in one city, a garden or a harbour in another. Anyone can film their view and submit it to the collection.
Main Features
- Random window views from homes around the world
- Real ambient sound like birds, traffic and rain
- One-click button to open a new window
- Location shown for each view
- Submit your own window video
- No account needed to watch
How to Get Started with WindowSwap
- Go to window-swap.com
- Press the button to open a new window
- Turn the sound on and let the view play
- Press again whenever you want to travel somewhere else
WindowSwap Pricing
WindowSwap is free to watch and needs no account. Submitting your own window view is also free.
Who Should Use It?
- Anyone who wants a calm background while working
- People who miss travelling
- Students who like ambient views while studying
- Curious minds who enjoy seeing everyday life elsewhere
- People who want to share the view from their own home
WindowSwap Alternatives
- Wonders of Street View: random amazing Street View spots
- Radio Garden: live radio from around the globe
- Virtual Vacation: walk and drive through cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is WindowSwap free?
Yes. You can watch as many windows as you like for free, without signing up.
Are the WindowSwap views live?
No. Each one is a recorded video of about ten minutes, filmed by the person who lives there, so the time of day may not match the place right now.
Can I add my own window to WindowSwap?
Yes. The site accepts video submissions of your window view, which the founders review before adding.