Google Hangouts

We often have certain websites, apps, or social networks that appeal to us all, and for some it is more than others.
Most of these networks are used on devices such as mobile phones, tablets, and/or computers that make it easier for us to gain access to said networks. One in particular that has come to stand out recently is: Google Hangouts.

Now according to the Cambridge Dictionary, the word hangout is defined as 'to spend a lot of time in a place or with someone', and, if we type in 'definition for hangout' in Google, it says something similar.
So what exactly is Google Hangouts?

Well, upon researching what this term meant, I was struck with quite a lot of information regarding it all. Google Hangouts is a communication service that allows users to upload their own ideas formulating in different medias such as: text, video, voice, or even chats. It is a platform that allows people to engage with others members, chat with friends, and even start video calls one-to-one or to a group. Its initial release was back in May 15 2013, and has only progressed throughout the passing years.

Google Hangouts seems to have a certain target audience that uses this service more than others, and that audience is those in business and enterprise. It seems that Google Hangouts is a new kind of way to help those wanting to promote a product, discuss business ordeals, etc. are using the network more than your everyday average Joe. It helps businesses promote their ideas and products in many different ways, some of which prefer to do this live so that they may be able to engage with the users that are following along. It helps people gain audiences for a variety of things such as- live performances, live shopping, or interacting with your favourite football star.

A platform owned by Google, Google Hangouts can be accessed by a wide range of devices. This includes the web, OS X, Linux, Chrome OS, and they even have an app available for iOS and Android users.

Hangouts are made into Gmail and Google+, and also Google Voice.

Google Hangouts wasn't exactly something that I had known about, let alone even used. According to firstpost.com, the Google Hangouts app is not mobile friendly, and is reported to become laggy and is just not all that appealing to the eye. In my personal opinion, the hangouts seem just like any other form of messaging forum. They all have the same purpose, and there aren't any differences that help it stand out from other popular social networking apps. It does make things useful by combining all the varieties of communication together, however there are other places, other services that you can benefit from better by using instead.
Will it ever be something that I will use to stay in contact with friends? No, I have other apps and sites that I favour more.

Here, you can find a video link containing all other information not covered in this post.
What are your opinions on Google Hangouts? Are they effective for you?