As the working from home model has become widespread in recent years, the competition between business communication tools continues unabated. Companies do not hesitate to copy each other’s ideas to attract users’ attention. The last example of this came from Google. Google Chat announced a new feature called “Huddle”. Interestingly enough, this name and functionality will be very familiar to Slack users.
The “Huddle” feature aims to transfer quick conversations between desks in the physical office environment to the digital environment. Instead of scheduling a voice or video call, it will now be possible to select the “Start Huddle” option by clicking on the phone icon on a chat screen. This feature creates a space for users to communicate briefly and quickly. During the call, it will also be possible to turn the audio call into a video meeting, if necessary.
This new feature offers a very familiar experience for Slack and Discord users. Huddles can be used in one-on-one chats, group messages and workspaces.
Google Chat is gradually rolling out its Huddle feature
Google Chat users will gradually gain access to the Huddle feature. While the feature will be active until December 20 for those using Rapid Release areas, users in Scheduled Release areas will be able to start using this feature as of January 6.
This move by Google is considered as a step towards increasing the importance of digital tools in the working world. Such features, which platforms such as Slack and Discord have offered for a long time, have been very effective in meeting users’ needs for easy and fast communication. Google Chat aims to close the gap between itself and its competitors by bringing this experience to its own platform with the “Huddle” feature.