Google Hangouts has positioned itself as a prominent communication tool that facilitates messaging, voice calls, and video chats, all under one roof. Developed by the tech giant Google in 2013, this multifaceted platform has evolved into a versatile medium for remote interaction. 

With its inception, Google aimed to create an immersive environment for users to engage in seamless conversations enriched with emojis, photos, and group video calls. But how did Hangouts start before it became Google Chat?

The Evolution of Google Hangouts

How Google Hangouts Started: From Early Years to Google Chat Transition

(Photo : John Schnobrich from Unsplash)  Google Hangouts was previously a standalone app for video calls and chats. The company has made several changes over the past years as it has evolved.

Originally integrated into Google+, Hangouts soon emerged as a standalone product, offering both Hangouts Meet for video conferencing and Hangouts Chat for instant messaging. 

Over the years, Google has continuously enhanced Hangouts' functionality, making it accessible across various platforms, including Android, iOS, and the web. 

As of 2017, the tech giant intensified efforts to position Hangouts as a robust communication solution for enterprises, catering to corporate and individual users alike.

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Identifying the Target Audience

Google Hangouts primarily caters to enterprise customers seeking cost-effective collaboration tools. However, its user base extends beyond corporate settings, encompassing individuals who leverage its diverse communication features for personal interactions. 

Whether through voice calls, video chats, or text messaging, Hangouts offers a versatile platform for connecting with friends, family, and colleagues alike. It can do a lot of things that other apps are not capable of at the time.

Key Features of Google Hangouts

  • Hangouts Meet: Seamlessly join meetings with a smart and intuitive interface, enhancing productivity in virtual gatherings.
  • Hangouts Chat: Foster team collaboration through chat rooms, facilitating real-time communication among team members.
  • Enhanced Security: Rest assured knowing that all video and audio streams on Hangouts are encrypted, prioritizing user privacy and data protection.

Transition to Google Chat

As part of its strategic app development, Google announced the transition of Hangouts to Google Chat in the first half of 2021. This migration will seamlessly transfer Hangouts conversations, contacts, and history to Chat, promising users an enhanced communication experience. 

With this transition, Google aims to offer a more advanced platform for users to connect and collaborate effectively.

Introducing Google Hangouts Dark Mode

For users seeking a more comfortable viewing experience, Google Hangouts now offers a Dark Mode option. By utilizing the Night Eye browser extension, users can enable Dark Mode not only on Hangouts but also across various websites, reducing eye strain and enhancing readability, especially in low-light environments. 

You can chat with your friends or work late into the night with this Dark Mode feature thanks to its visually pleasing interface that won't compromise on functionality.

How to Activate Google Hangouts Dark Mode

  1. Install the Night Eye browser extension.
  2. Enjoy Dark Mode across all Google products and most websites.
  3. Experience enhanced readability and reduced eye strain, even in darker environments.

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Joseph Henry


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