Google Duo - High Quality Video Calls

Google Duo is an app for making video and audio calls released by Google in 2016. The app offers high quality calls, group chats and video messaging.

Design and navigation: Simple and Smart

The app is designed for users of all ages, meaning it is extremely user friendly and intuitive. The interface is not overloaded with tabs and buttons, and starting a call requires only several seconds of your time. The app has adopted Google design standards and is stylish, simple and functional. There are plenty of features accessible only when you truly need them, and they always seem to be in the right place for the users not to get lost. The app looks great both on smartphones and tablets.

Features and usability: Powerful Enough

Google Duo has several core features of a video chat app. They are:

• Cross-platform video and audio calls;
• Group video chats with up to 12 participants;
• Video and audio messages.

Of course, these are just the basics, as even Google would not be able to enter the video chat market without some killing features. First of all, Google Duo provides a decent quality of the video, one of the best available. Another useful feature is the low-light mode, which allows video chat even if the room is dark. There is also an option to call people without having a number: Google Duo has a web client for desktop, so you can make a call with knowing only the Gmail address. One of the most impressive features is Android-exclusive, but we cannot ignore it in the review: Google Duo does not have to be installed on the receiver’s phone, thanks to the Google Services.

Security: End to End

Security is one of the best features of Google Duo, as the app offers end to end encryption. The technology works in a way that even Google cannot decode your calls. Google also has a bounty program for security vulnerabilities, making their app even more secure.

Verdict: One of the Best

There are many other apps for video calls and chats. Google Duo has several killing features we have mentioned in the text. If they are killing enough for you, it is a choice we recommend.

Highlights:

• Very intuitive and user-friendly interface;
• Good video call quality;
• No number needed to make a call;
• High level of security.

Pitfalls:

• There are more functional alternatives on the market;
• Some users find messages inconvenient to use.