Google has announced a major update for its Hangouts app today. Version 4.0 of the app received a new look more in line with Google's material design. As such composing a new message is done with a new button in the top right bottom of the app, similarly to Gmail or Inbox. Before the update, the compose button was a tiny plus button at the top right corner of the app. The compose button thus becomes more accessible on phablets or any Android phones with big screens. Besides the material design, Google also made Hangouts speedier. See the full log below:
- Hangouts is sleeker. Now updated with material design, Hangouts has a new look and feel: items respond to your touch in more intuitive ways and transitions between tasks are more fluid.
- Hangouts is simpler. The new Compose button makes it easier for you to start a new group or conversation. Our streamlined contacts list helps you find the right person quickly. And attachments have been revamped and simplified, so sharing—of emoji, GIFs, your location, even multiple photos at once—is a snap.
- Hangouts is faster. Whether you’re sending a quick message or video chatting with family, you don’t want hold-ups. We’ve been obsessively fixing bugs and speeding up message delivery to make Hangouts faster and more reliable. Bonus: less battery consumption
The update was still not appearing for me in the Play Store at the time I published this article. I assume it must be on its way.
I often wonder how many users actively use Hangouts for video calls. Google did not communicate the numbers and when Google does not brag about numbers, it must not be enough to their liking. I have hangouts installed, thus contributing to the 500 million downloads. That number does not reflect the number of active users. Personally, I use Skype because everyone I know use it. The only people I kind-of know who uses Hangouts are tech sites like PocketNow.
Users of Hangouts will be glad to learn about an update that includes new sticker packs. Among useful features is the ability to see the last time your contacts were online. Another update lets you share your location with your friends should they ask. Finally, the update includes the usual bug fixes.
What's new:
- New sticker packs!
- See the last time your contacts were online
- When friends ask where you are, share your location with one click using smart sharing suggestions
- Improved video cal experience and miscellaneous bug fixes.
