Google’s new video calling app, Duo, was released on August 16 for both Android and iOS. It has only been two days since the apps release, and we are already getting news about new functionality coming to the app. Soon, Duo will soon support “audio only” calls. This news comes to us from Google’s product lead in charge of real time communication, Amit Fulay. There is no timeframe as of yet when we will see this new feature, only a nebulous “Coming Soon.”
Duo is Google’s response to Facetime and is available for both iOS and Android. Duo seeks to simplify video calling by using your phone number to connect directly to others for one on one encrypted video calls. In addition to the ease of use, Duo will also manage your calls for an uninterrupted experience by adjusting video quality to maintain frame rates, and can switch seamlessly between WiFi and your cellular network without dropping your call.
Duo marks a huge step forward for video calling between devices. You will not need a log-in or password, just your phone number and a friend (Or two phones, who are we to judge). Googles willingness to help bridge the “Android and iOS divide” with Duo will allow more friends and family to communicate in a simplified and meaningful way.
You also have to agree to allow Duo to send all your contacts to Google. No thanks….