While it was once a popular choice for instant messaging with friends also using Gmail, a lack of upgrades and clunky shortfalls are making people turn to alternative apps. It is also a sensible move for users of other Google services as your conversations and calls will be synchronized across your devices.įor informal chats and ease-of-use however, it has a long way to go. It is easy to add users to a group chat and free to make calls within the app.

For corporate communications, Google Hangouts is an excellent choice. You also have the option of reducing the video quality for bad connections, and the camera will automatically show the person speaking. Alongside Skype it guarantees exceptional quality and you can add up to 10 people for a conference call.

Where Google Hangouts truly has the edge is with its group and video calls. The app leaves a tiny footprint on your iPhone (146.1 MB) and you can turn off notifications for those busy chats and block any annoying users. There is also a search function that allows you to find messages from your Gmail using the Google Hangouts app although this is not always 100% effective. The instant chat feature also lets you share photos with friends (although unlike other messaging apps it doesn’t save all your images within the app). You can send fun emojis, stickers or gifs in your conversation. You can also search for friends via their email address, name or phone number. It synchronizes with your Gmail account and you can choose to import all your contacts. Unlike WhatsApp you do not need to sign up with your phone number, but it is for using alongside a Google account. Google Hangouts also lets you chat online with friends for free. Maybe you already use apps like Skype, Whatsapp or the iMessenger preinstalled with iPhone. In the world of instant communication and remote working, apps like Google Hangout are increasing in importance.

Google Hangouts: more than just hanging out Multiplatform app for instant messaging, group calls and more

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