By Gadjo Cardenas Sevilla
Google's release of their Duo 1-to-1 video calling application for Android and iOS device signifies a serious move into the personal communication app space. Looking at rival Apple's iPhone, one of the key applications and features that has made it easy to grow the ecosystem is FaceTime on iOS and macOS devices. Google's Duo is a clear cross-platform move to challenge FaceTime as well as create the foundation for a new class of lightweight and dedicated apps.
I reached out to Google Canada to get more perspective on what Duo can do and what it really means. Below is a transcript of our Q&A.
GCS - How is Duo different from Google Hangouts?
Google: With Allo and Duo, Google has focused on building mobile-only single-purpose apps. This helps to keep the app lightweight and fast, and also helps users better understand what the app is. We will continue to invest in Hangouts to make it a great communications product across devices.
GCS - Does Duo automatically adjust to the existing bandwidth?
Google:Duo is focused on providing high-quality video calls, but it will automatically adjust quality as necessary to maintain calls on slower networks.
GCS - Will Duo be exclusively for video calls or can it be used for voice only calls?
Google - Duo will try to adjust video quality to keep calls going regardless of network speed, but if the network is too slow to maintain a video call, Duo will automatically pause the video to keep the call going with only audio.
GCS- What are Duo's System Requirements?
Google - Duo will be available for Android phones Jelly Bean and higher, and iPhones with iOS 9 and higher.
FAQ's - below is some more information on the Duo app
Q: What operating systems does Duo support?
Duo will be available for Android phones Jelly Bean and higher, and iPhones with iOS 9 and higher.
Q: Will both parties need to have the app to join a call?
Yes.
Q: What countries will Duo be available in?
Duo will be available through the app stores globally (in 78 languages).
Q: Do you need a Google account to use the app?
No. (although the app will be tied to one's phone number).
Q: Does video calling in Duo work on 2G networks?
Duo will try to adjust video quality to keep calls going regardless of network speed, but if the network is too slow to maintain a video call, Duo will automatically pause the video to keep the call going with only audio.
Q: Can you register with a Google Voice number?
Yes.
Q: Can you block a caller in Duo?
Yes, within the app settings.
Q: Does Duo support group calls?
No, Duo is focused on providing simple and high-quality 1:1 video calling.
Q: Does Knock Knock work on iOS?
Currently, Knock Knock only works on the lock screen for Android devices (since we provide the APK for apps to take over the lock screen on Android). iOS does not provide this ability for apps, so Knock Knock will only work if the app is already open on the receiver’s phone.