Now that the Allo instant messaging and Duo video calling apps are commercially available, we’re curious as to what will become of Hangouts. We know the app will remain even it still can’t beat iMessage, Facebook Messenger, and WhatsApp. We were told earlier that the entrance of the Allo and Duo won’t mean the end for Hangouts as Google will continue to offer it as a standalone app. In fact, Google is still regular in releasing updates for the service.
Recently, it was updated with better group chat controls, deleted conversation merging, and added video messaging. It began using P2P connections for better call quality.
There’s really no stopping Google from offering Hangouts as it still has a lot of supporters. It will be known for the enterprise as the product is integrated with Gmail or Docs–both known as Work products. Hangouts won’t be killed just yet. So you won’t be confused, Allo is used for mobile only. Meanwhile, the Duo is a separate video calling chat.
Enterprise productivity will be the focus of Hangouts from now on since it’s integrated with more Google apps ideal for work and productivity like Docs, Drive, Calendar, and Gmail. This means Hangouts is mainly for desktop and ideal for work but on mobile, it’s better if you use Allo and Duo.
Google seems to be veering away from all-in-one apps. It makes sense now because as proven by similar apps, such don’t work and there’s a chance of more bugs and issues. Remember Facebook and its instant messaging feature? Facebook did break away from the mold and launched Messenger as a separate app. Maybe that’s the direction Google is headed at so let’s just wait and see.
VIA: Engadget
