To use Google Hangouts, follow these steps:
1. Set Up a Google Account:
- If you don't already have one, sign up for a Google account at accounts.google.com/signup.
2. Access Google Hangouts:
- Visit the Google Hangouts website (hangouts.google.com) or download the Google Hangouts app from your device's app store.
3. Sign In:
- Sign in to Google Hangouts using your Google account credentials.
4. Start a Chat:
- To start a one-on-one chat, click on the "+" icon or the "New conversation" button.
- Enter the email address or name of the person you want to chat with.
- Type your message in the chat box and press Enter to send it.
5. Group Chats:
- To start a group chat, follow the same steps as a one-on-one chat, but add multiple email addresses or names in the "To" field.
- Type your message in the chat box, and it will be visible to all participants.
6. Video Calls:
- To start a video call, click on the video camera icon in a chat or on the main Hangouts page.
- Select the person or group you want to call from your contacts or enter their email address.
- Click on the "Video call" button to initiate the call.
- Allow Hangouts to access your camera and microphone when prompted.
7. Voice Calls:
- To make a voice call, click on the phone receiver icon in a chat or on the main Hangouts page.
- Select the person or group you want to call from your contacts or enter their email address.
- Click on the "Phone call" button to start the call.
- Hangouts will use your device's microphone and speakers for the call.
8. Share Files and Media:
- During a chat or video/voice call, you can share files, photos, and videos by clicking on the attachment icon (paperclip) or the photo icon.
- Choose the file you want to share from your device or from Google Drive.
- Click on "Send" to share the file with the recipient(s).
9. Notifications and Settings:
- Customize your Hangouts settings by clicking on the gear icon in the top right corner.
- Here, you can manage notification preferences, adjust video and audio settings, and set your status (available, away, or invisible).
10. Hangouts Meet:
- Google Hangouts has been rebranded as "Google Meet." For video conferencing and larger group meetings, consider using Google Meet instead of Hangouts.
- Visit meet.google.com or use the Google Meet app to schedule and join video conferences.
Google Hangouts provides a simple and convenient way to chat, make video or voice calls, and share files with individuals or groups. Its integration with Google accounts and devices makes it easy to connect with others and stay connected across various platforms.
