Google Chat takes on Slack with new Huddles feature
Google is rolling out a new feature called Huddles in Google Chat that will allow users to start quick voice or video calls directly from ongoing conversations. The rollout has begun and is expected to reach all Workspace users by January 6, 2024. This new capability has been designed to enhance remote collaboration, mirroring a similar feature offered by Slack.
“Huddles help to reduce meeting fatigue for hybrid workers, and eliminates the need for lengthy discussions over email or in Chat. Instead of jumping out of the conversation and into a meeting, huddles integrates directly and smoothly into the Chat experience. The format of huddles also supports multi-tasking while in Chat as you can easily resize or share your screen.”
Users can initiate a huddle by clicking a dropdown menu next to the call icon within a Google Chat, then selecting “Start a huddle.” This feature is designed to facilitate seamless communication amongst coworkers, allowing them to transition from text-based conversations to voice or video calls effortlessly. Upon selecting the huddle option, the default setting initiates a voice call, but participants have the option to enable video and share screens, emulating the experience available in Google Meet. This emphasizes Google’s push to create a more integrated workspace for remote teams.
Users can initiate a huddle by clicking a dropdown menu next to the call icon within a Google Chat, then selecting “Start a huddle” (Image: Google)
The announcement revives previous expectations, as huddles were first hinted at during a significant Google Chat redesign announced over a year ago. Notable improvements to Google Chat following the redesign include AI-powered summaries and the ability to tag or reply to coworkers. While these features have rolled out over the past year, many users expressed a preference for the addition of huddles sooner, considering their potential to enhance spontaneous communication.
The naming of this new feature aligns it closely with Slack’s own Huddles. Both platforms allow users to initiate immediate voice conversations, reflecting a growing trend towards more flexible communication channels in office environments.
Featured image credit: Google