UNDERSTANDINGGOOGLE HANGOUTS

WHAT ARE HANGOUTS?

According to Google, Hangouts “is” a tool that “lets you send messages, photos and emoji, and make video calls with your friends and family”.

The feature we’re most interested in is “video” of course :)

PREREQUISITES

In order to use Hangouts you need:a) a Google+ accountb) Hangouts turned on (Hangouts is automatically enabled in Google+ until you turn it off)

THE MAIN DISTINCTION

There are two types of Hangouts:1) video Hangout = private video call or conference call (up to ten persons)

2) Hangout on Air = public broadcast streamed live both on the host’s G+ profile and YouTube account

VIDEO HANGOUT REQUIREMENTS

To start or join a video Hangout you need:1) Google Talk Plugin Installed2) webcam3) microphone

HANGOUT ON AIR REQUIREMENTS

To host a Hangout on Air you need:1) Google Talk Plugin Installed2) webcam3) microphone4) YouTube account connected to your G+ profile and verified

HANGOUT ON AIR REQUIREMENTS

To join a Hangout on Air you need:1) Google Talk Plugin Installed2) webcam3) microphone

HANGOUT ON AIR REQUIREMENTS

To watch a Hangout on Air you need:nothing but your computer (or tablet or smartphone) and an internet connection :)