5 basic features of Google Duo

Google Duo is the latest video calling app from Google. Together with Google Allo and Android Messages, it aims to replace Hangouts with a specific and simple app. Unlike Google Voice, which focuses on calling landline numbers, Google Duo takes advantage of mobile phone numbers If you've never used it, we'll tell you its main features, to see if we arouse your curiosity about this tool.

No Google account

Unlike other Google apps, Google Duo does not need to be synchronized with a Gmail accountIt works like WhatsApp, linked to a phone number. As in the rest of the messaging apps, when we connect, it asks us to register the number, and to confirm it through a code that arrives by SMS. Once the number is linked, we will only have to access our contacts that have Google Duo and call them. For once, we leave Gmail alone.

Simplicity

Google Duo are calls. Nothing else. We do not have the possibility of sending text, or stickers, or emojis. Pure and simple instant communication. Therefore, the app occupies only 30 Mb on our device According to Google's vision, the user already has Google Allo if they want to write messages, or even Android Messages for SMS.

When we start Google Duo, the front camera turns on, and we have a blue button to start the call. When pressed, it takes us to our contact list, and we only have to select the one we want to call. There's no more.

Video or Audio

We can choose if we want to make a video call or an audio call, through a simple option at the top of the screen . If we do not have our hair combed or we are in a public place that we do not want to be identified, we just block the video and make an audio call, equivalent to WhatsApp or Telegram.

Wi-Fi or data connection

In the Settings section we can decide if we want our calls to be made only using the Wi-Fi connection or also with the data connection. If we are concerned about data consumption, we have an option, called Limit the use of mobile data. This option allows us to the bandwidth used by Google Duo never exceed 1 Mbps This will surely mean a reduction in image quality, but in exchange, a lower consumption in our rate.

Knock Knock

With Knock Knock you can activate the camera while the call is in progress. This means that you can see the face of the person who is calling you even before you answer In the same way, the other person can see your face while their phone is sounds.

What is the use of this function? Simply, is a way to encourage the other person to pick up the phone, even when there is no communication. It's not vital, but it's fun, although it can be counterproductive if the other person isn't ready, or is in some intimate place, like the bathroom.

In case we are not satisfied with the function, it is easy to turn it off. Just going into Settings and clicking on the Knock Knock option. By default it comes on, yes.

As we can see, Google's strategy is anything but inclusive. He wants us to have a specific app for each use, that is very easy to use and that works perfectly. Except for the detail of the Knock Knock mode, Google Duo has practically no configuration options Adjust the type of call, manage consumption, and little else.

You can download Google Duo for free on the Play Store and the App Store. How about? Do you dare to use it?