Google Voice, Hangouts, and Gmail all receive Android app updates
Apparently my last Google app update roundup was published a little too soon, as Google has just pushed out a few more updates for Google Voice, Hangouts, and Gmail on Android. All of these add some nifty features, so you’ll definitely want to make sure you know what they’re all about.
Just one word of warning: These updates are rolling out gradually, so don’t freak out if they’re not available for you yet.
Google Voice
The latest Google Voice update in the Play Store allows users to send SMS short codes – finally. This is great for people who rely on short codes for things like online banking alerts or mobile coupons. Previously, if you attempted to send short codes from Google Voice, the app would stop you and offer to send them via the default messaging app; that’s OK for some people, but not for those of you who have transitioned to using your Google Voice number as your full time number.
Google Voice even works with the 911 short code as well, although it will warn you that you’re sending an emergency text.
Download: Google Play
Hangouts
The latest update to Hangouts finally comes with online status indicators! When you start a new Hangout, green icons show who’s on, and gray shows who is offline or unavailable.
Some additional improvements include:
- Contacts are now organized by People you Hangout with, Suggested People, and Other Contacts.
- Long press contacts in the New Hangout screen to hide them.
- Invites are now above your conversations so they’re easier to find.
- Pinch-to-zoom photos!
Download: Google Play
Gmail
The latest version of Gmail will bring bring a new card-based UI – the same one that was first introduced with Google Now, and is slowly infiltrating every Google-owned app out there. The cards will mainly appear when viewing conversations, so your inbox will remain uncluttered and easy to view at a glance. The screenshots I’ve seen look very nice, so I can’t wait for this update personally.
Download: Google Play
[Engadget | Android Police | Android Community]
