Google Chat in Gmail now allows you to make instant 1: 1 video and audio calls on Android and iOS devices

[ad_1]

Google Chat in Gmail will now allow you to make 1: 1 audio and video calls, Google announced via a blog post. The company brought the update specifically for mobile users to Android and iOS platforms and is limited to 1: 1 chat only. This means that you will only be able to make audio and video calls with individual users available in your chat list. You will also see missed calls and current call details from the Gmail chat list.

Following the update initially announced in September, users who enabled Google Chat in Gmail will begin to see phone and video icons in the top right corner of a 1: 1 chat. You just have to tap one of these icons to directly make an audio or video call, depending on your preferences.

Gmail will notify you of an ongoing call with a blue banner displayed at the top of the screen. It will include the name of the person on the call, along with its duration. Likewise, Gmail will indicate missed calls with a red phone or video icon within the conversation and chat list.

The Gmail app on mobile devices receives instant audio and video calls via Google ChatPhoto Credit: Google

The new calling experience is available to all users with personal Google Accounts and to Google Workspace, G Suite Basic, and Business customers. Both the caller and the recipient must have the latest version of Gmail to make and receive calls.

“As some teams begin to return to office, while others remain distributed, we hope this makes it easier to connect with colleagues in the hybrid workplace,” Google said in the blog post. “This feature will allow you to easily switch from chat to a video or audio call when needed, helping you collaborate and get your work done.”

The call update on Gmail comes particularly in the midst of Google’s transition from Hangouts to Google Chats. Although the move was originally meant for Google Workspace, it is gradually reaching regular users as well as the Hangouts service will be discontinued.

You can enable Google Chat in Gmail by turning on Show chats and spaces tab after selecting General> Chat from the settings menu in the Gmail app.

For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on Twitter, Facebook, and Google News. For the latest gadget and tech videos, subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Jagmeet Singh writes about consumer technology for Gadgets 360, in New Delhi. Jagmeet is a senior reporter for Gadgets 360 and has written frequently on apps, cybersecurity, Internet services, and telecommunications developments. Jagmeet is available on Twitter at @ JagmeetS13 or by email at [email protected]. Please send your contact details and suggestions. Microsoft’s $ 16 billion deal on Nuance faces deeper investigation by EU antitrust regulator

[ad_2]