Google Chat is undergoing a transformation, shifting its focus from being solely a business-centric platform to incorporating features commonly found in popular messaging apps like WhatsApp. The latest update brings seven new features aimed at enhancing the user experience and catching up with similar services.
The update includes several basic tools that are already prevalent on other platforms. Users can now edit or delete messages by pressing and holding the text, similar to other messaging apps. On desktop, users can hover over the message to access the Edit or Delete options. Another new feature allows users to quote messages directly, ensuring context is preserved in busy group chats. Additionally, inactive conversations can be hidden to declutter the interface.
These features are available now, and users can install the patch on their smartphones or desktop computers when it becomes available.
Google has plans to introduce more features to Google Chat in the coming weeks. Read receipts, already available for direct messages, will be rolled out to group chats by the end of the month. Profile pictures will be moved to the lower right-hand corner, and the ability to add hyperlinks to text will be introduced on the web and Android versions of Google Chat.
The patch also includes some work-centric features. AI-powered Smart Compose, a tool already present in Gmail, will provide contextually-aware suggestions to reduce grammatical errors in messages. Third-party app support is also in the pipeline, though currently limited to business-related apps like Asana.
The expansion of Google Chat’s features raises questions about its intended focus. Originally designed for work purposes, the recent update suggests a shift towards a broader user base. While Google aims to meet the needs of its users, it remains to be seen whether competing with WhatsApp, a service with billions of users, is a wise decision. It is crucial for these features to align with a focused vision for the platform’s future, rather than Google unnecessarily bloating Chat. This update also challenges the perception that Chat is solely for professionals, especially considering the upcoming redesign.
For users who feel that Google Chat is becoming bloated, there are alternative messaging apps available. TechRadar provides a guide to the best WhatsApp alternatives for Android and iPhone users.
In summary, Google Chat’s latest update introduces several features to enhance user experience, incorporating functionalities commonly found in popular messaging apps. The expansion of features suggests a departure from its initial business-centric focus and raises questions about its potential competition with WhatsApp.
