Google Chat

Google Chat is a cloud-powered communication software developed by Google and offered for free to all holders of Google Account. This service evolved from the Google Hangout Chat feature, and after the period of extensive upgrades, Google decided that it would retire Hangouts and replace it with two new chat services – Google Chat for Windows PC which is intended to streamline text communication between users who are collaborating inside Google Workspace suite (such as working together on Google Drive documents), while the other will be Google Meet, a new Google service for fast, secure and easy video communication.

This app is a part of Google Workspace - Cloud Business Apps & Collaboration Tools. It’s FREE for the first 14 days, Try Now!

It was originally built as an integral part of Google Workspace (formerly known as G Suite) as a premium feature that allows business, education, and government customers to engage in collaboration more easily during their daily tasks. However, after Google unveiled plans for opening Google Workspace for free to all its users, it also announced changes to its text communication services.



This included the retiring of Hangouts and the promotion of Google Chat as their main text chat service. Originally rolled out to the Google customers as “early access”, this web app is now available to all holders of the free Google Account.

It allows users not only to establish direct communication with other users but also to create Rooms where many users can post and interact without restrictions. The app supports effortless embedding of multimedia, sharing of Google Drive files, and customizable notification settings for each Room.

The service mimics many features available in other enterprise chat applications such as Slack and Microsoft Teams, with many background services enabling streamlined communication not only in education, business, and large government organizations but also between family members and friends.

To enable streamlined collaboration, Google Chat of course has full integration of video chatting, with support for group video chat (of up to 8 persons), resizable video windows, and the ability to overlay text chat over the video feeds instead of resizing video windows to make space for the text chatbox.

Google Chat is available for free for all holders of Google Account. The app can be downloaded as a standalone app by users who have a fully updated version of the Google Chrome browser. In addition to the browser access, Google Chat is also released as an iOS and Android app.

Key Features

Real-Time Messaging: It allows users to send and receive instant messages in real-time, making it perfect for quick and efficient conversations.

Threaded Conversations: Organize your chats into threaded conversations, helping you keep track of important discussions and reducing clutter.

Integration with Google Workspace: Seamlessly integrate Google Chat with other Google Workspace apps like Google Drive, Google Docs, and Google Calendar, making it easier than ever to collaborate on projects and share files.

Video and Voice Calls: Initiate video and voice calls directly from the chat interface, enabling face-to-face conversations with colleagues or friends.

File Sharing: Share files, images, and documents with ease, reducing the need for external email attachments.

Customizable Notifications: Tailor your notification settings to ensure you're always informed about the messages and updates that matter most to you.

Search Functionality: Quickly locate past conversations and shared files with the powerful search feature.

Security and Privacy: Benefit from Google's robust security measures and end-to-end encryption to keep your conversations and data safe.



User Interface

The program boasts an intuitive and user-friendly interface. The clean design makes it easy to navigate, with chat threads displayed on the left sidebar and chat conversations in the center. The interface is consistent across web and mobile platforms, ensuring a seamless experience for users on any device.



Installation and Setup

Installing the software is a breeze. For desktop users, you can access it through a web browser without any additional installation. Mobile users can download the app from the respective app stores (iOS and Android). The setup process is straightforward, requiring you to sign in with your Google account.

How to Use

• Sign in to Google Chat with your Google account.
• Start a new conversation by clicking on the "New Chat" button or selecting a contact from your list.
• Type your message in the chat box and hit Enter to send it.
• Use the icons at the bottom to attach files, initiate video or voice calls, or send emojis and GIFs.
• To organize conversations, create threads by clicking the "Create Thread" button.
• Explore advanced features like integration with Google Workspace apps for enhanced collaboration.

Install the Google Chat standalone app

• Sign in to chat.google.com.
• To install the app on your computer, try one of these methods:
• If the app isn't already installed, a pop-up window opens to download the app.
• Tip: This pop-up window might appear shortly after you first use the app.
• At the top right of Google Chrome, in the URL bar, click Install  and then Install.
• At the top right of Google Chrome, click Customize and control Google Chrome and then Install the program.

Open the standalone app automatically at startup

Important: These steps don't work on Chrome OS.

• On your computer, open Chrome.
• In the address bar, enter chrome://apps.
• Right-click on the Chat standalone app .
• Select Start App When You Sign In.

FAQ

Is Google Chat FREE to use?
Yes, Google Chat is available for free to anyone with a Google account. However, some premium features may require a subscription to Google Workspace.

Can I use Google Chat on my mobile device?
Absolutely! it offers mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices, providing a seamless mobile communication experience.

Is Google Chat secure for business use?
Yes, it prioritizes security and offers end-to-end encryption, making it suitable for business communication and collaboration.

Can I use Google Chat offline?
It primarily operates online. However, you can access your previous messages and continue conversations in offline mode, with updates syncing when you reconnect.

How does Google Chat compare to other messaging apps like Slack or Microsoft Teams?
It offers robust messaging and collaboration features. Its integration with Google Workspace makes it an attractive choice for those already using Google's productivity suite. However, the choice between Google Chat and competitors like Slack or Microsoft Teams may depend on specific business needs.



Alternatives

Microsoft Teams: Part of the Microsoft 365 suite, offering a comprehensive communication and collaboration platform.

Slack: Ideal for team collaboration with powerful integrations and customizable channels.

Zoom: Integrated with Zoom's video conferencing, it provides messaging and file sharing for remote teams.

Discord: Popular for gaming communities, but also used for team communication with voice and text channels.

Signal: Focused on privacy and encryption, it's a great choice for secure messaging.

Pricing

It offers a FREE version for individual users. For businesses and organizations looking for advanced features and integration, Google Chat is part of the Google Workspace subscription, with (Business Starter) plans starting at $6 per user per month.

System Requirements

Google Chat is accessible through web browsers on Webapp, Windows, macOS, and Linux platforms. Mobile users can download the app on iOS and Android devices.

PROS

• Seamless integration with Google Workspace apps.
• User-friendly interface on both web and mobile.
• Robust security and privacy features.
• Real-time messaging, threaded conversations, and file sharing.
• Free version available for individuals.

CONS

• Premium features require a subscription.
• Integration might be less seamless for users not invested in the Google ecosystem.
• Competition from established messaging and collaboration platforms.

Conclusion

All in all, Google Chat is a powerful communication and collaboration tool that excels in streamlining messaging and productivity. Its seamless integration with Google Workspace and user-friendly interface make it a compelling choice for individuals and businesses already invested in the Google ecosystem.

With strong security features and regular updates, Google Chat is poised to transform the way teams communicate and collaborate in the digital age. Whether you're looking for a more efficient way to communicate with colleagues or connect with friends, Google Chat is definitely worth exploring.

Also Available: Download Google Chat for Mac