Hangouts App for Android

Google Hangouts is a communication platform that includes messaging, voice calls, and video calls. It was widely used for both personal and business communication. Google had announced the discontinuation of the classic Hangouts service and transitioned users to Google Chat and Google Meet for business communication. However, the Hangouts app was still available for personal use.

Here’s how you could use the Hangouts app for Android:

Installing the Hangouts App:

1. Open Google Play Store: Tap the Google Play Store icon on your Android device.
2. Search for “Hangouts”: In the search bar at the top, type “Hangouts” and press “Search.”
3. Install the App: Find the “Hangouts” app in the search results and tap “Install” to download and install it on your device.

Using Hangouts for Messaging:

1. Sign In: Open the Hangouts app and sign in with your Google account. You can use your Gmail account credentials.
2. Chat Contacts: You can start chatting by selecting contacts from your Google Contacts list or by entering their email addresses.
3. Sending Messages: Tap on a contact to open a chat window, then type your message and tap the send button (usually a paper airplane icon).
4. Group Chats: You can create group chats by selecting multiple contacts and starting a conversation with them.

Making Calls and Video Calls:

1. Calling Contacts: In Hangouts, you can make voice calls and video calls to your contacts. Open a chat with the contact you want to call, then tap the phone or video call icon at the top.
2. Group Video Calls: You can also initiate group video calls by adding multiple contacts to a video call.

Hangouts and Google Fi (Formerly Project Fi): If you were a Google Fi user, Hangouts was used for texting and calling with your Google Fi number. However, Google Fi has transitioned to other messaging apps for SMS and calling.

The availability and functionality of Hangouts may have changed since my last knowledge update in September 2021. Google has been shifting its focus toward other communication apps and services. It’s a good idea to check the Google Play Store for the latest information and updates regarding Hangouts or its replacement services.