Google Chat is including voice messaging for private Gmail accounts after launching on Workspace earlier this yr. This new function allows you to ship voice messages to family and friends proper out of your Gmail inbox. However with so many Google chat apps, you is perhaps questioning what Google Chat is precisely, and the way it’s completely different from the others.
Google Chat is a communication platform that lets you ship messages, make video calls, and share information with different customers. Consider it as Google’s reply to Slack or Microsoft Groups. You need to use Google Chat for one-on-one conversations or group chats. It’s built-in into Gmail, so you’ll be able to simply entry it out of your inbox.
Now, you is perhaps considering, “Wait, doesn’t Gmail have already got Google Meet and Areas?” And also you’re proper, it does. Nevertheless, Google Chat is a separate platform with its personal distinctive options. Google Meet is primarily for video conferencing, whereas Areas is extra for threaded conversations and undertaking collaboration. Google Chat, however, is designed for extra prompt, back-and-forth communication.
With this replace, Google Chat is getting a function that’s already widespread in different messaging apps: voice messages. To make use of it, simply faucet the microphone icon within the bottom-right nook of a chat window. You’ll see a waveform and counter whereas recording, and you’ll hearken to your message earlier than sending it. When you hit ship, the recipient will see an inline waveform and get a transcript of your message after a couple of moments. This function is offered on Android, iOS, and the net model of Gmail.
This replace makes Google Chat a bit extra versatile. It offers you another choice for speaking with folks, which will be particularly helpful when you’re on the go or when you favor to speak relatively than sort.
Personally, I believe that Google Chat has its place within the office as a Slack competitor, however don’t see a lot use of it for private accounts. Having a number of chat apps, all made by Google, can get somewhat bit complicated and brings on some PTSD from the entire Hangouts/Duo/Chat transition a couple of years again. I’m unsure if I’ll really use the voice messaging function, however hopefully it might be helpful for some folks. I’ll have an interest to see if Google Chat finally replaces one other app in Google’s ecosystem of apps, or if it can proceed to coexist amongst them.
