Here’s a quick overview of Google’s various chat and video services. Is Google Hangouts still a thing? What’s the difference between Google Hangouts and Google Chat? What is Google Meet, and how is it different from Google Duo?
- Google Hangouts is Google’s longest-running messaging and video chat service. As of June 2020 this service will only be offered to consumer accounts, which is basically anyone with an @gmail.com or @googlemail.com email address. Hangouts can be found in the Gmail sidebar and at hangouts.google.com.
- Google Meet, previously named Google Hangouts Meet, is Google’s premium video conferencing software, provided as part of G Suite. There’s also a free version of Meet. Meet is similar to the video chat service provided in the consumer Hangouts but supports far more participants. Meet can be found at meet.google.com.
- Google Chat, previously called Google Hangouts Chat, is Google’s paid team chat service, provided as part of G Suite. If you use Gmail with a company email address, you’re already a paid G Suite user, meaning you can use Chat. This app includes direct messaging, just like the consumer Hangouts, but also offers threaded team channels similar to Slack. Chat can be found at chat.google.com.
- Google Duo is Google’s answer to FaceTime, offering one-on-one video chats on mobile and computers. Duo can be found at duo.google.com.
Up-gradation or Innovation – Google Chat , Google Hangouts
