Google Hangouts for iOS 7 was in need of a serious makeover and that's just what it got on Thursday. The new version of Hangouts incorporates all the hallmarks of the most popular messaging apps from animated stickers to video messages.
Hangouts 2.0 is a huge upgrade for iOS users who were gypped on several cool functions in the last version. The app's layout is also a lot more user friendly and more iOS 7-esque, with its minimalistic approach. The new app is available for all iOS devices, including the iPod, iPad, iPad Mini and, of course, iPhone. One of the most important aspects of the Google Hangouts makeover is definitely the way it looks on the iPad and iPad Mini.
The iPad version of the Hangouts app features a split-screen view so that you can see all your contacts on the left-hand side and your current conversation on the right-hand side. On the bottom left of your iPad screen, you will see "Contacts," "Favorites," "Hangouts" and "Calls."
Underneath your conversation on the bottom right, is where you type your message. Now, with the new version, you have an attachment option where you can add stickers to send to your friends. The stickers are actually pretty cute and they are animated. You can choose from several different options, including a heart, a punching fist, a waving hand, a bicep (great for teenage boys), two fingers making the peace symbol and many more.
When you click on the attachment paper clip, you can also send images, a short video message or your location to your friend. The video message feature is cool because it lets you deliver a short verbal message friends without having to commit to a huge video hangout. Considering the fact that with the old version of the app you could only send messages, this is truly a huge upgrade for iOS users.
Android users are justifiably rolling their eyes right now because they've had these cool features for ages already, but iOS 7 users are jumping up and down with joy over these new additions. Obviously Google thought it had better play nice with the iOS people in light of Facebook's purchase of WhatsApp. The new update makes Google Hangouts a truly modern and attractive messaging app for iOS users.
How do you prevent an exodus from your messaging app? Add cool features and a gorgeous redesign. Check on both counts, Google.
