More than two years ago, we know that Google was planning to end its classic Hangouts app in favor of opening Google Chat for those who don’t have the Google Workspace. With the migration set to occur in the first half of 2021, Google Chat is preparing a beta test to open the app for viewing by Hangouts users.
About APK Insight: In this “APK Insight” post, we decompile the latest version of an app that Google uploaded to the Play Store. When we decompile these files (called APKs, in the case of Android apps), we can see several lines of code within this tip for possible future features. Keep in mind that Google may or may not provide these features, and our interpretation of what they may be imperfect. We will try to enable those who are closer to completion, however, to show how they will look if they are sent. With that in mind, keep reading.
Google Chat “Consumer Beta”
In October, Google shared an approximate timeline for the transition from Hangouts to Google Chat, stating that the migration would take place in the “first half of 2021”. More specifically, this migration will bring your conversation history, contacts, and more from the Hangouts app to Google Chat.
Currently, if you open the Google Chat app on a non-Workspace account – any Google account that ends with @gmail.com or @googlemail.com – simply informs you that you do not have access to Chat, give or accept some exceptions, such as being invited to an existing workspace.
Google chat received an update earlier this month to version 2021.01.24, where we found that Google appears to be preparing a beta preview period for the average person using Hangouts to switch to the chat.
Welcome to Google Chat
”Google Chat presents a new experience and features not found in Hangouts. As this is a preview of the new Chat, you may experience bugs and other problems. “
In fact, even if you don’t install the full Google Chat app, you’ll still have the opportunity to test the latest experience. A similar update “2021.01.24” for Gmail includes more information on how this Google Chat beta preview period will work for Hangouts fans.
Try Google chat in Gmail
“Switching to the Google Chat view allows you to experience the new experience and features.
As this is a preview, you may experience bugs and other problems.
You can return to the previous chat setting at any time. “
During the viewing period, you’ll be able to switch between classic Hangouts and Google Chat, including adding the Google Chat integration directly to the Gmail app. This should take the form of “Chat” and “Rooms” tabs, joining the current mix of “Mail” and “Meet” tabs in Gmail, as presented for the first time last year.
As Google repeatedly describes it, this beta preview period is designed to help ensure that when classic Hangouts is finally over, Chat is fully ready to take on the mantle of Google’s main messaging app. By the time the complete migration takes place later this year, all difficulties will have been resolved for a seamless transition.
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