How do I use the new Google Chat feature in the Gmail app? The Mountain View company has launched early access to the latter, which allows you to use your email address to create a chat room and chat with your contacts. We explain how to activate this option on your smartphone.
It's been some time now Google seeks to separate from Hangouts, its chat solution. At the beginning of 2020, Google Meet replaced Hangouts Meet, until it established itself as one of the references for videoconferencing applications during the various confinements. A few months ago, we learned that Google will force its users to migrate to Chat during the year 2021.
The transition is now about to begin. Google Chat is now available in early access for all smartphone app users. It is possible to activate it to test it with your contacts before the official deployment of the feature. So you can use your email address to chat directly with other people.
Related: Gmail — A Small Interface Change That Makes Life Easier
How to enable Google Chat in Gmail
You can already access Google Chat in your Gmail app. Here's how to go about it:
- Open the application gmail
- Click on the side menu at the top left of the screen
- Go to Parameters
- Select email address desired
- In the tab General, Check the box Chat (early access)
- Click on Try
Now you can try the Chat feature. A bar appears at the bottom of the screen with a tab Chat, Living Room et Meet. The Chat tab allows you to create a room, browse those to which you have been invited and manage the invitations received.
If the option does not appear in your settings, it is probably enough to update your application. Here's how:
- Open the application Play Store
- In the side menu, click My games and apps
- Go to the section Updates and Pending
- If Gmail is not up to date, the application will appear on the screen. Click on Update profile
All you have to do is take advantage of this new feature with your contacts. Google has yet to specify an official rollout date, but Early Access says the firm plans to do so in the coming months. In the meantime, some bugs may still be present, and the final version may differ from the current version.
