Google Duo Could Be the New Rival for Skype

Duo is considered a response to similar apps like FaceTime, Skype, and Facebook’s Messenger app.

The new Google app called Duo is considered a response to other similar apps like Apple’s FaceTime, Microsoft’s Skype and Facebook’s Messenger app.

After hitting it big with Gmail in 2004 which is now the number one form of electronic correspondence in U.S, Google has endlessly tried to make relevant messaging tools that can resonate with young users.

Google’s Duo works with mobile devices running Google’s Android operating system and Apple Inc.’s iOS. It works on Wi-Fi and cellular networks, and can automatically switch types and speeds of connection and adjust video quality.

Because it also works with phone numbers and not just with Google accounts or Gmail addresses like expected, it makes it easier to call friends and family already store on the contact lists. In order to activate your account, Duo sends an SMS so you would only need a valid phone number.

If a user has multiple devices, the tie-up to the phone number will allow him to utilize the same number on different Duo installs.

Many other services require both participants to have accounts to use the video calling options. Moreover, the already existing video calling and messaging app from Google, Hangouts, restricts its use by requiring a Google account.

Duo’s Knock-Knock feature will give you a live video preview of the caller before you pick up. This app will remember people’s choices or type of message and will apply what it learns in future conversations. Most of the existing similar apps just show the caller’s generic profile picture.

Moreover, the users will have more time to answer the call because it will ring for more than a minute. You will have the ability to block individuals or numbers and the app also comes with end-to-end encryption.

After Google has enrolled its Duo app in the UAE app stores, many people believe that it’s only a matter of time before being banned as the UAE policy blocked the video calling over mobile network.

The UAE’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) has already banned video and voice calling features from WhatsApp, BlackBerry, Viber, Snapchat and Skype. According to TRA, only licensed telecom operators can offer VoIP (voice over internet protocol) in the UAE.

Image source: Pixabay

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Roxanne Briean

I am a geek, a gamer and a writer. I have always been fascinated with the online community. At the moment I work as a full-time writer and study interior design. When I'm not scouring the net in search of interesting new gadgets and software I spend my time in MOBAs or drawing.