Three months after its original announcement at Google I/O, Duo is ready to be your new video calling app.
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Google Duo is similar to Apple’s FaceTime, Microsoft’s Skype and Facebook’s Messenger, however, it offers a couple of unique features.
All Duo calls are end-to-end encrypted and the app allows users to connect using their phone number without a separate username/account. Contacts without Duo can be invited over SMS with an app download link. The app also has the ability to switch between cellular and Wi-Fi network if needed. When an individual receives a call, the app’s Knock Knock feature lets the chat recipient see live video of the caller for some visual insight. We’ve built Duo to be fast and reliable, so that video calls connect quickly and work well even on slower networks. The video quality is reduced “gracefully” to ensure that calls aren’t disconnected, and don’t break up. Google officially launched Google Duo. “We built Duo with an emphasis on privacy and security”, reads a blog from Google. Duo, which works exclusively on phones for 1-on-1 video calling is finally here and is launching today on Android and iOS.
Duo isn’t available to Android users in the United Kingdom as yet but will be in the coming days.
The knock, knock function is created to make video calls seem more spontaneous and appealing. After singing up user can make a video call just in one tap.
The Google Duo has blocking a caller feature too and turning off the app completely if one does not like it.
“The chances of you having your close friends and family’s phone number is much higher than having a specific account, so using the phone number makes it easier”.
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Google has been offering a video call service through Hangouts since 2013, but that is now being specifically tailored for business meetings.
