Google Hangout

Hangout lets users connect and communicate with colleagues in multi-user video rooms. Users might use Hangouts to hold a business meeting, discuss a particular “hot topic” or pressing issue, or just have a multi-user video chat.

Google Hangouts Logo

Hangouts let you share your computer screen so other people in the Hangout can see what’s on your screen. You can choose to share any open window on your computer. You can also share Google Drive files and collaborate to write meeting notes or draw on a shared whiteboard.

Google Hangouts provide “On Air” Videos

When you start a Hangout in Google+, you’ll also see an option to use Hangouts On Air. Hangouts On Air let you broadcast your Hangout, making them a great option for large presentations, demonstrations, or lectures. After the Hangout and live broadcast, you can edit the recording of the meeting and share it on YouTube

What can you do with Hangouts?

• Send SMS and Hangouts messages: You can start a Hangout with just one person or multiple people. You can also send text messages using Hangouts and your mobile phone number.
• Use with multiple devices: Hangouts conversations are synced automatically across devices, so you can start a Hangout on your computer and continue on another device, like your phone.
• Make video calls: Have face-to-face conversations with up to 9 other people using video calls from Hangouts. It’s easy to invite specific friends or circles.
• Share photos, locations, and stickers: You can share photos, stickers, and emoji in conversations. On mobile devices, you can also share your location with others.

Google Hangouts is a useful tool for journalists, as he can choose the participants and livestream the session to particular Google+ Circles or to the public on Google.

What do you need to get started on Hangouts?

• To use Hangouts, you’ll need a Google Account.
• Download and install the latest version of the Hangouts plugin. The plugin will allow you to use Hangouts with Chrome, Firefox, and Safari browsers.

Pros and Cons

• PROS

Supports voice, text, and video chat. Picture sharing. Colorful emojis. SMS and Google Voice integration. Improved contacts list. Cross platform with desktop and iPhone.

• CONS

Requires Google+ account for advanced features. Little customization. Confusing Google Voice and SMS integration. Requires well maintained contacts list.