Google+ Android app adds Hangout video chat for Android 2.3+ phones

September 20, 2011 | by Andrew Kameka

Another popular feature from the Google+ social network has trickled down to the Google+ Android app. Hangouts, the group video chat platform that allows up to 10 friends to communicate with each other, is now supported in the latest version of the G+ Android app.

Google VP Vic Gundotra made the announcement a short while ago, confirming that Hangouts are available for devices running Android 2.3 or higher and have a front-facing camera. Just like the desktop version, users will see when their contacts are in a hangout, and tapping the “Join Hangout” button will enable the user to appear from their phone. Buttons at the bottom of the screen allow users to mute their microphone, switch to their rear camera, or turn off their front-facing camera.

The Android Market should show an update available at some point today. I’ll be back later with impressions once I’m able to download the app on my EVO. From the looks of things, users can’t actually start a Hangout from their device, but they can join an active stream.

It will be interesting to see how effective Hangouts prove on the mobile experience. The great aspect about the desktop was that the camera quickly switched to users who were talking since software could recognize changes. Network speed might get in the way of that working efficiently on phones and tablets based on my experience with Fring’s Playgrounds, so we’ll see soon.

11 Comments

Charles West said: On September 20, 2011

Shit just got real…

jamez said: On September 20, 2011

front facing cam not detected on evo

- AndrewKam said: On September 20, 2011
  
  are you running CM7 or other custom ROM's? Anyone with FFC and Gingerbread should see it but a couple of people on Sensations w/ CM say they can't use it.
  
  - Charles West said: On September 20, 2011
    
    I'm not seeing it on my phone either, which is a myTouch 4G running CM7.
    
Lighthouse said: On September 21, 2011

what's the deal with "Front facing camera required"? a cam is a cam. I can just as easily point my rear-facing cam at a mirror and voila, my face is in the hangout. Get real Google

aaron said: On September 22, 2011

I can't use it either – Samsung GS2 with Cognition.

esgar said: On September 22, 2011

How about for the tab 10.1?

sonja yolanda blackman said: On April 17, 2012

my andriod phone

hollandenetwork.com said: On April 29, 2013

Your composing has really inspired us to re also think my method of
writing. I can tell you I appreciate your fantastic work.

next page - www.prlog.org said: On May 2, 2013

Thanks for the purpose of giving this kind of substantial knowledge.

Taylor said: On May 3, 2013

With thanks! This is definitely an very good web site.

estate agents hamilton said: On May 3, 2013

i’ve tested many different word counts. i’ve…

found that writing content that is between 415-530 words in length is the optimal word count. also, it ensures that people will read your entire entry and click through to your product or service.use dialogue. this is the golden nugget of…

Android Apps and News

Thoughts on the Samsung Galaxy S 4 and Unpacked 2013

Diztronic case review for LG Nexus 4

Why I decided to purchase the Nexus 4

Samsung Galaxy Note 2 - Verizon Remix Version

HTC DROID DNA Review

Samsung Galaxy Note II Review

Android Apps