The app, dubbed Duo, represents Google’s response to other popular video calling options, including Apple’s FaceTime, Microsoft’s Skype and Facebook’s Messenger app.
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Google has introduced a new feature “Knock Knock” that allows people to see live video of the caller before they answer, helping users connect with the person even before they even pick up.
The app, which can be used on Apple’s iOS and Google’s own Android operating system, uses phone numbers rather than a Gmail address or Google account, which its original messaging app, Hangouts needed. Google says it “makes video calling more spontaneous and welcoming”, giving you a sense of what the caller is up to and why they want to chat. That lets the person being called see who’s ringing them – but it doesn’t show anything from the camera until the user actually answers the call. To ensure privacy and security, all Duo calls are end-to-end encrypted.
However, it doesn’t work with iOS devices unless the app is already up. Users just need to tap the other party’s number to start a video call.
Google Duo is based on the phone number, allowing you to connect anyone in from phone-book.
Google has been offering video calling through its Hangout feature, but the internet company is now tailoring that service for business meetings. The app is built to work even if you are on a slower network.
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Google also did many other things in the backend to make the chat immediate with better quality. By default this feature is enabled for both Android and iOS devices. Android users can opt out of the feature via the app’s settings. The app is available for download today and is expected to be released worldwide in the next few days. While this is a great new addition, what’s more convenient for users is the fact that Duo will switch between Wi-Fi and cellular connections without letting your calls drop.
