This may be a deal breaker for those who like to chat on multiple devices, but for those looking for easy video calling, it’s worth a try.
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Apple does not profess to be anxious by Google’s moves. “We built Duo with an emphasis on privacy and security”, reads a blog from Google.
Google unveiled Duo at its Google I/O developer conference in May 2016. But if you are in the app then you will get the live preview of the caller.
This is not the first time Google has provided video calling.
The application, which is being rolled out worldwide over the next few days, will compete with Microsoft’s Skype and Apple’s FaceTime.
Google, (NASDAQ:GOOG) owned by Alphabet Inc.
FaceTime, in contrast, is now six years old. Apple later expanded FaceTime to work with iPads and Macs, among other Apple products. Keep checking out the App or Google Play store in order to download it when it becomes available in your area. Google is stressing that video calls made with Duo are reliable and fast, with the video front and center within the app interface. From an easy interface to contact list integration the whole thing is meant to make Duo the simpler choice.
Video calls will automatically drop in resolution when bandwidth is limited to keep them from getting choppy. The most interesting and a completely new feature added in this Google Duo is the Knock Knock. It can be disabled in case you have friends who are likely to make inappropriate hand gestures. The recipient does not see the video streaming until after the call is answered.
Automatic Network Switching: The app is compatible with both Wi-Fi as well as cellular networks and switches seamlessly from one network to the other based on the best signal strength.
Early reviewers said this would help people look presentable before taking a call. When more people use Duo, we can expect the picture quality to vary depending on network traffic and internet speeds. You can also limit your mobile data usage, enable your phone to vibrate while ringing (Android only), unregister your phone number, and block numbers, among other things.
Google Duo also introduces a feature called Knock Knock.
Video calling apps are a dime a dozen, but Google has at least one unique feature here that’s rather compelling.
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Simplicity: Duo has been created keeping ease of use and simplicity in mind. My wife was able to easily place a call from her iPhone to mine using the app. Android users can opt out of the feature via the app’s settings.
