Google has unveiled Google Duo – it’s like FaceTime but a little fun. The app is available for Android and iOS.
It takes the complexity out of video calling, so that you can be together in the moment wherever you are.
The app opens up a twin screen- view of your front-facing camera and a group of recently dialed contacts.
“Duo is simple from start to finish. To get started, all you need is your phone number and you’ll be able to reach people in your phone’s contacts list. No separate account is required, so you can sign up in just a few steps. From there, you can instantly begin a video call with a single tap.
We’ve built Duo to be fast and reliable, so that video calls connect quickly and work well even on slower networks. Call quality adjusts to changing network conditions to keep you connected — when bandwidth is limited, Duo will gracefully reduce the resolution to keep the call going smoothly. For video calls on the go, Duo will switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data automatically without dropping your call. You can start your call at home, and continue seamlessly even when you head out the door.” Google writes.
Google has also introduced an optional feature dubbed Knock Knock which works like a digital ‘peephole’. It allows users to get a sneak peek of the people they are calling even if they decide not to answer.
“To make calls feel more like an invitation rather than an interruption, we created a feature in Duo called Knock Knock which lets you see live video of your caller before you answer, giving you a sense of what they’re up to and why they want to chat. Knock Knock makes video calling more spontaneous and welcoming, helping you connect with the person before you even pick up.” Google adds.