Following reports, Google has officially announced that it is integrating video calling into core Android apps via Duo. The integration will add a dedicated video call button to let you start video calling easily from three core apps: Phone, Contacts and Android Messages app.
Currently the feature is rolling out to first-generation Pixel, Android One and Nexus devices, and it will also be available on Pixel 2. The company is also working with carrier and device partner to bring Duo integration to more Android devices.
Google is also adding support for ViLTE standard as well. If you and the person you're video calling are on a carrier that supports ViLTE video calling, your video calls will routed through the carrier's dedicated ViLTE service, rather than Duo. If not, Duo will connect your video call.
To use Duo make sure you and the person you're calling have the app installed on the supported device, as well as have the latest version of Phone, Contacts and Android Messages app.
Google also said that later this year, it will add the ability to upgrade an ongoing voice call to video with just a tap.
Google is updating three of its popular apps ― Duo video calling app, Allo messaging app and Photos apps, adding new features.
First up, Google's Duo, which previously offered only video calling, now gets audio-only calling capabilities to help users communicate when on poor-quality network connection. The feature will roll out starting today in Brazil, and will get a wider-release in the coming days.
Next, Google's Allo is getting a feature to permit file sharing. Users can now share documents and other files like .pdf, .docs, .apk, .zip and .mp3 in a conversation. To send a file, you've to tap on the '+' icon in the chat box, then select the paperclip icon and select the file, you want to share. Additionally, Allo also gets new Smart Smiley features in Portuguese, apart from English for users in Brazil.
Google Photos for Android and iOS is also getting a feature that will make it easier for users to share and backup photos on low connectivity.
With the updated Photos app, your photos will back up automatically in a lightweight preview quality, that's fast on 2G connectivity. When the WiFi connection is good, the backed up photos will be replaced by high-quality versions. In addition users can also share the photos faster on low connectivity by first sending photo in low-resolution, and the photos will later be updated to higher resolution, when the connectivity is good.
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