Hangouts on Google

We have already seen how to use Google Drive, so now I am going to explain another Google tool that can be worthwhile: Google Hangouts.

First of all, sign in on your Google account and go to the same menu where we went to find Drive. And find the Hangouts option.

This is a simple tool for messaging, voice and video calls. In reference to chats, you can decide whether to have a one-to-one conversation or include all your friends with group chats for up to 100 people. And obviously you can send photos, maps, emoji, stickers and GIFs.

Additionally, when it comes to making video calls you can make them with up to 9 other people and opens up the viewing for as many people as you want. After that, you can save the chat on YouTube. Options not available in Facebook or Skype. And there is also the resource to share your screen. Imagine now you need to explain a project during a video call, now you'll be able to share your screen and ensure that the other people is also looking at the same thing as you, so there will be no misunderstandings. Moreover, as it is available for many devices, you can start a video call on your computer and finish it on your phone.

If we now look at the phone calls, it is true that this is a weak point on Google Hangouts because it is not available to all locations and only those in US and Canada are for free.

To end with let me tell you WHY YOU CAN NOT LONGER IGNORE Google Hangouts:

It has a "Hangouts on Air" option. You can decide to broadcast live conversations to the world for free, or you can follow another Hangout of your interest. 

What do you think about making an online video call lesson for you students?