Reviewing and using Google Hangouts, I can personally believe it’s gonna kick Skype’s ass…
Have you tried Google Hangouts yet? If so, what do you think?
-
Google Hangouts VS Skype
A bit hard to use at the beginning and with Hardware problems, once you get to use it you’ll see the advantages and huge difference with Skype.
In my opinion, I think that Skype got very close to becoming the biggest Internet voice communication software.
Skype has been leader in features and quality, but what makes Skype top all lists of VoIP software is its popularity. The Skype service comes with an application software, that was doubtfull in the beggining but higly trusted right after. [Check “Skype – 5 Years Later, Is It Still The Best?” http://bit.ly/Mdl7EX]
Years ago (here in Japan) I used to tell my friends “gimme a call in Skype” but the answer was almost always “What’s Skype” Right after Skype’s new features and Hardware calling options, Skype has gained trust, preference …and a lot of rivals. [Please stay by for my next post on “Introduction to The Most Popular VoIP Software”]
At Mondo Media Networks, we have started using Google Hangouts …and it has worked 3 of 4 times, but those have been useful.
As Dana VanDen Heuvel mention in her fantastic blog post “Everything You Need to Know About Google Hangouts” the most important things to know in 5Ws:
Who
Google Hangouts are a great way to interact with your clients, social media followers, and colleagues. The only caveat is that participants must have a Google Plus account. Hangouts limits the number of people who can participate in the Hangout to 10; however, if you choose to make the Hangout ‘public’ you can invite as many viewers as you want.
What
As I mentioned above, Google Hangouts is a feature offered on the social network, Google Plus, that allows users to hold virtual meetings online. Hangouts are perfect for teaching, collaborating or brainstorming, and getting feedback from some of your trusted clients.
When
Google Hangouts can be held anytime. I would recommend scheduling the Hangout well in advance so that invitees have time to fit it in to their busy schedules.
Where
Well this is pretty obvious: Google Plus, of course! Physically, you can host a Hangout anywhere you have access to a solid Wi-fi connection…your house, the office, hotel room. I would strongly suggest finding a quiet place to avoid picking up unwanted background noise from say, a coffee shop. Also, I can’t stress enough the importance of a good internet connection. With a choppy internet connection you can’t expect the Hangout to run very smoothly.
Why
Google Hangouts are an efficient way to interact with multiple clients at a time. It shows that you are accessible and that you care about what they have to say.
How
When you are logged into Google Plus, you’ll notice there’s a “Start a Hangout” button on the right side of your profile.
Click the button and you’ll be required to install the Google Voice and Video application, which should only take a few minutes.
Once you’ve installed the app, you can select the people you want to join the Hangout, and if you want anyone to be able to view, choose the option to make the Hangout public. When you’re ready to start the Hangout, simply press the “Hangout” button below the video screen and start hanging out.
Check her description of “Hangout Extras” and “How to Prepare” at her blog here.
I personally think there’s gonna be a very interesting fight to take over communications if Skype can be added to Facebook windows or if Facebook FINALLY decides to have their own applications for VoIP alternatives.
ホセくん [ hoze・kən ] Josekun 