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Hangouts

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17
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Hangouts vs WhatsApp: What are the differences?

Introduction

Hangouts and WhatsApp are two popular messaging platforms used by millions of people worldwide. While both of them serve the purpose of instant messaging, there are some key differences that set them apart from each other.

  1. Privacy and Encryption: One of the major differences between Hangouts and WhatsApp is their approach to privacy and encryption. WhatsApp uses end-to-end encryption by default, ensuring that only the intended recipients can read the messages. On the other hand, Hangouts does not provide end-to-end encryption for all messages, making them potentially more vulnerable to interception.

  2. Platform Compatibility: Another difference between Hangouts and WhatsApp lies in their platform compatibility. WhatsApp is supported on both Android and iOS devices, allowing users to communicate seamlessly across different platforms. In contrast, Hangouts is not as widely supported and is primarily available on Android devices, making it less accessible for iOS users.

  3. Integration with Other Google Services: Hangouts has a distinct advantage in terms of integration with other Google services. As a part of the Google ecosystem, Hangouts offers seamless integration with Gmail, Google Calendar, and other Google apps. This integration allows users to easily switch between different Google services and access their messages and conversations within the same interface. WhatsApp, on the other hand, functions as a standalone messaging platform without any direct integration with other services.

  4. Group Chat Features: When it comes to group chats, there are some notable differences between Hangouts and WhatsApp. Hangouts allows users to create and participate in group conversations with up to 150 participants, making it suitable for larger groups or professional settings. WhatsApp, on the other hand, has a limit of 256 participants for group chats, which may be more suitable for smaller groups or personal use.

  5. Audio and Video Calling: Both Hangouts and WhatsApp offer audio and video calling features, but there are some differences in their functionalities. Hangouts allows users to make audio and video calls directly from the app, using their internet connection. In comparison, WhatsApp also offers audio and video calling features, but the calls are made through the user's phone network or Wi-Fi, depending on the availability.

  6. User Base and Network: Lastly, the user base and network of contacts differ between Hangouts and WhatsApp. WhatsApp boasts a larger number of active users globally, making it more likely for users to find and connect with their friends, family, and colleagues on the platform. Hangouts, although popular, may have a smaller user base in comparison, which could limit the number of contacts available for interaction.

In summary, Hangouts and WhatsApp differ in their approach to privacy and encryption, platform compatibility, integration with other services, group chat features, audio and video calling functionalities, and user base and network. These differences contribute to the unique user experiences offered by each platform.

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Pros of Hangouts
Pros of WhatsApp
  • 4
    Free
  • 14
    Free
  • 3
    Easy to carry on with contact

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Cons of Hangouts
Cons of WhatsApp
    Be the first to leave a con
    • 1
      No privacy
    • 1
      Centralized
    • 1
      Maximum to 8 person video call

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    What is Hangouts?

    It is a communication platform which includes messaging, video chat, and VOIP features.

    What is WhatsApp?

    It is a cross-platform mobile messaging app for iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Windows Phone and Nokia. It allows users to send text messages and voice messages, make voice and video calls, and share images, documents, user locations, and other media.

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    What companies use Hangouts?
    What companies use WhatsApp?
    See which teams inside your own company are using Hangouts or WhatsApp.
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    What tools integrate with Hangouts?
    What tools integrate with WhatsApp?

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    What are some alternatives to Hangouts and WhatsApp?
    Google Hangouts
    Message contacts, start free video or voice calls, and hop on a conversation with one person or a group.
    Skype
    Skype’s text, voice and video make it simple to share experiences with the people that matter to you, wherever they are.
    Duo
    Duo is a next-generation package manager that blends the best ideas from Component, Browserify and Go to make organizing and writing front-end code quick and painless.
    Zoom
    Zoom unifies cloud video conferencing, simple online meetings, and cross platform group chat into one easy-to-use platform. Our solution offers the best video, audio, and screen-sharing experience across Zoom Rooms, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and H.323/SIP room systems.
    Google Meet
    It is the business-oriented version of Google's Hangouts platform and is suitable for businesses of all sizes. It allows users to dial in phone numbers to access meetings, thus enabling users with slow internet connection to call in.
    See all alternatives