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Google gets rid of Gmail video chat, replaces with Google+ hangouts

Tineka Smith Published 31 July 2012

Google is replacing Gmail’s video chat system with its Hangout feature from its social networking service.


The switch will create improved performance Gmail video chats and those that have Google+ accounts will be able to chat with multiple people at the same time.

Gmail's video chat service had only allowed one to one sessions.

"Unlike the old video chat, which was based on peer-to-peer technology, Hangouts utilize the power of Google's network to deliver higher reliability and enhanced quality," said Fred Brewin, Product Manager at Google.

Hangouts in gmail

Google video chat session will not be limited to computer use and will also be available to use on Android and iOS devices.

"You'll be able to chat with all the same people you did before and, in fact, with Hangouts you'll now be able to reach them not only when they are using Gmail but also if they are on Google+ in the browser or on their Android or iOS devices," said Brewin.

In addition to be able to communication with up to nine people at once, Google+ users on Gmail will also be able to watch YouTube videos simultaneously as well as screen sharing.

The new Hangouts service will be rolling out today for Gmail and then gradually over the next few weeks.
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