Google Chat Introduces ‘Huddles’: Audio-First Feature for Seamless Collaboration

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Huddles

New Delhi: Google has unveiled a new feature for its messaging platform, Google Chat, called “Huddles”. Powered by Google Meet, this audio-only option offers a quick, efficient, and fatigue-free way for users to engage in real-time collaboration without relying on video calls.

What Are Huddles?

Huddles are designed to provide an easy transition from text to audio communication within Google Chat. With just a few clicks, users can start an audio-first meeting, promoting a more casual and accessible communication style. The feature supports multitasking, allowing users to resize the Huddle window, share their screens, or add video if needed.

Google on Huddles: “Instead of jumping out of the conversation and into a meeting, Huddles integrates directly into the Chat experience, making collaboration smoother and less tiring.”

Key Features of Google Huddles

  1. Quick and Simple Setup: Start a Huddle with just a click from the Chat window.
  2. Crystal-Clear Audio: Leveraging Google Meet’s cutting-edge audio technology for reliable and exceptional sound quality.
  3. Seamless Integration: Effortlessly transition between text and voice within Google Chat.
  4. Noise Cancellation: Advanced AI-driven noise cancellation reduces background distractions for an immersive audio experience.
  5. Multitasking Support: Users can resize the Huddle window, activate video, or share their screen without interrupting the call.

How to Start a Huddle in Google Chat

  • Step 1: Click the video icon in the Chat window’s upper-right corner.
  • Step 2: Select “Start a Huddle.”
  • Step 3: Begin with audio-only, but video and screen-sharing options can be enabled anytime.
  • Step 4: Invitations to join a Huddle are sent as chat notifications, ensuring a smooth joining experience.

Huddles can be used in direct messages, group chats, and spaces, making it a versatile tool for all types of collaboration.

Administrator Controls

For organizations using Google Workspace, administrators can manage Huddle access by enabling or disabling Google Meet within their domain.

Huddles

Why Huddles?

With this new feature, Google aims to bridge the gap between text and voice communication while addressing video fatigue. By combining the high-quality audio of Google Meet with the seamless integration of Google Chat, Huddles is poised to meet a broader range of communication needs in personal and professional settings.

This feature is expected to make real-time collaboration more flexible and accessible, offering a glimpse into the future of communication tools.

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