Google Chat: The New Kid on the Block
As Google rolls out their new chat platform, Hangouts, we take a look at what features it includes and how it differs from traditional chat platforms like Yahoo! Messenger and AOL Instant Messenger (AIM). By the end of this article, you’ll be able to decide whether or not you should use Google Chat to keep in touch with friends and family over the Internet.
How does it work?
With Google Chat, you can easily connect with co-workers across the globe in real-time. All you need is a computer with an internet connection and a web browser. You can also use your mobile device to access Google Chat. Simply download the app from your app store and sign in with your Google account. You can create rooms for specific projects or topics, or join public rooms to chat with others who have similar interests. Rooms can be either open or closed to participants. When chatting, you’ll see messages as they are typed which will help avoid misunderstandings. And like any good ol’ fashioned conversation, if someone leaves the room there will be notifications alerting other participants that person has left the room.
How does it differ from other messaging platforms?
Google Chat is a messaging platform that is part of the Google Workspace suite of productivity tools. It launched in 2017 and has since become one of the most popular messaging platforms for businesses. Google Chat differs from other messaging platforms in several key ways . For starters, it provides an enterprise-grade chat service with end-to-end encryption and group chat capabilities. These features are not available on any other chat apps, but they’re necessary for large companies who want to keep their information secure.
Where can I use it?
Now that Google has announced that Hangouts will be replaced by Google Chat, you might be wondering where you can use the new chat app. Here’s a quick rundown of how it works and what you need to know about it before using Google Chat for your communications needs.
The last sentence should read And just like any other messaging service, Google Chat is not without its flaws.
Can I use it with my friends who don’t have it yet?
If you’re used to classic Hangouts, you might be wondering how Google Chat stacks up. Can you use it with your friends who don’t have it yet? Here’s what you need to know. You can’t send pictures or videos via chat in Google Chat. There are no status icons either so if someone is online but not actively in a chat, you won’t know until they open a chat window.
Do I have to download another app if I already have Hangouts?
No, you don’t have to download another app if you already have Hangouts. Google is gradually transitioning Hangouts into Google Chat, so Hangouts users will be able to use all of the features of Google Chat without having to download a separate app. When people send you messages in Google Chat, they’ll appear in your chat list and conversation thread like any other conversation. You can still switch between Hangouts and Google Chat just by clicking on their respective icons in the bottom right corner of your screen.
Will my messages still be end-to-end encrypted?
Yes, your messages will still be end-to-end encrypted in Google Chat. You can rest assured that your conversations are private and secure. End-to-end encryption means only you and the person you’re chatting with can read what’s sent back and forth. It ensures that a third party never has access to this information – not even Google. Plus, your chats are always protected by strong encryption for all text messaging (SMS) between phones or computers.
