Google Chat is introducing seven new features as it shifts its focus from being exclusively business-centric to possibly becoming more like WhatsApp.
In this recent update, Google Chat is catching up to other messaging services by adding basic tools commonly found on platforms used for personal conversations. Firstly, users can now edit or delete messages on the app by pressing and holding the text. On the desktop version, users can simply hover over the message and select Edit or Delete. Secondly, users now have the ability to directly quote messages in group chats to maintain context. Finally, users can hide inactive conversations for at least a week to declutter their chats.
All these features are available now. Simply install the patch once it reaches your smartphone or desktop computer.
Coming soon
Google Chat has plans to add more features in the coming weeks. These features include read receipts for group chats, profile pictures in the lower right-hand corner, and the ability to add hyperlinks to text on the web and Android versions. Additionally, the AI-powered Smart Compose, already available on Gmail, will make contextual suggestions to help reduce grammatical errors.
Although Google Chat plans to introduce third-party app support, the focus is currently on business-related apps such as Asana. It is uncertain if streaming services or games will be included in the future.
Analysis: Too much, too soon?
Google’s expansion of Google Chat raises the question of its intention. Initially, Chat seemed to serve solely for work purposes, as evident from the upcoming professional-oriented redesign. However, this recent update challenges that notion and hints at a broader focus.
While Google aims to compete with WhatsApp, a service with billions of users, some may question if this is a wise decision. Hopefully, these seven features are part of a strategic vision for the platform’s future and not just unnecessary bloating, considering Google’s history of discontinuing services like Hangouts for the same reason.
If you feel that Google Chat is becoming too bloated, there are alternative messaging apps available. Check out TechRadar’s guide on the best WhatsApp alternatives for Android and iPhone.
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Alex Smith is a writer and editor with over 10 years of experience. He has written extensively on a variety of topics, including technology, business, and personal finance. His work has been published in a number of magazines and newspapers, and he is also the author of two books. Alex is passionate about helping people learn and grow, and he believes that writing is a powerful tool for communication and understanding.
