Google Inc has plunged into the smart phone market with a bang, this time heralding a new set of smart phone software apps. Apart from their hugely successful web email service, Gmail, Google has of late been developing its own phone operating system running on phones – Android. And, beginning late April 2011, Google introduced video and voice chat running on Android. What this means is that a user with a phone running on Android can now take advantage of the ubiquitous Wi-Fi, 4G and 3G networks and place calls via Google Talk. This extends to users on Gmail chat as active on their personal computers.
The devices that are currently supporting this video call service include the Samsung Nexus S range of smart phones. To successfully run video chat rooms on these smart phones, however, you will need at least Android Version 2.3.4, also called Gingerbread.
For you to be able to place a video call with your colleague or family you must be logged in into your Gmail account. The video calls are easy to locate as they are indicated on the smart phone screen next to the friend (contact) list. With video calls via Google Talk on an Android system, you could be chatting via instant messaging while at the same time having a face to face discussion with the guy at the end. All that will happen is that the instant message gets on the video screen to catch your attention. The video is automatically paused when the caller switches to another function on the smart phone, for instance opening another application or menu. This however does not put the voice on pause mode. This is advantageous because it lets you continue with the real time discussion.
Video calls require a relatively fast computer processor that will support the data as well as voice and video requirements. Android’s integration of audio, text and video chatting makes the platform a strong proposition among executives and other potential buyers who are looking at a differently styled and powered phone.
The integration of Google Talk technology on an easily updatable operating system that is Android brings you free phone and video calls wherever you are. It is thus an ingenious way of connecting you with the people who matter in your life, for a pittance. In addition, it is just a straightforward chat platform that will not only let you create an innovative way of communicating on the cheap but also makes it easy to do so. With just a few taps, you are good to go.
Since the software comes pre-installed there are really no hassles of extra downloading, sign up processes or hidden costs attached to the service. However, Google has not yet delimited the service from being an Android-only, exclusive affair much like Apple’s FaceTime and it still is not possible at the moment to place video calls on non-Android, usually iOS-run machines.
Google has a great idea and is catching up. It is worth a try.