Google's Hangouts has benefited from a much-awaited update, which brings not only tweaks to the interface, but also marks the arrival of the quick replies from the notifications feature. On Tuesday, Google pushed out Hangouts 7.0 version for Android users, which packs in several new features that are bound to excite users.
With Hangouts 7.0, users will be able to "Send and receive both Hangouts and text messages (SMS/MMS) and switch easily between message types." In 2015, rumors were rife that Google was looking to completely remove the option of sending text messages via Hangouts in an impending update. Even though Hangouts 7.0 does not remove this ability, it does advice users to deploy Google Messenger for SMS purposes.
The update to the app also brings the ability to reply quickly to a message through notifications. Hangouts' iOS app and the Messenger both received the quick reply notification feature a couple of months back. When one taps the reply from a notification option, a keyboard and message box will pop up.
If one wants to write the reply on the app instead of using this option, then a tap on the button on the top right will save what had been written. This can then be pasted to Hangouts. However, the option for replying is only available when the message is unread. If there are multiple messages, one cannot reply quickly.
When a user initially launches the updated app, they will see a popup, which will urge one to switch to the Google Messenger app, making it their default app for SMS.
Hangouts version 7.0 also gives the option of placing a shortcut of a particular group message or conversation to the home screen. The shortcut ability can be accessed via the options menu in the individual message. The menu in the conversation reads "Save to Home Screen."
The settings menu has also been tweaked and the check boxes have now been turned into toggles after the update.
Here is a complete list of features according to the changelog of Hangouts version 7.0:
• Connect a Google Voice account for SMS, voicemail and phone number integration.
• Express more with stickers, emoji, photos, maps and animated GIFs.
• Include all contacts with group chats for up to 100 people.
• Call any phone number in the world. All calls to other Hangouts users are free.
• Turn any conversation into a free group video call. Up to 10 contacts are allowed.
• Message online and offline contacts anytime.
• Keep in touch with friends and contacts across the Web, iOS and Android.
• Sync chats across all devices.
The update for the Hangouts app is being pushed out now for Android users and should make its way to devices soon. For those unwilling to wait can download it from APK Mirror.
