Hangouts for Android gets updated with more SMS options, better support
An update to Hangouts is rolling out for Android devices through the Google Play Store right now that provides better SMS support and the ability to fine tune some options previously untouchable.
Most significant is the ability to set whether or not you want group messages to be sent as MMS or SMS – all previous versions of Hangouts sent group messages as MMS by default, which is great if you’re texting a lot of iPhone users or other Hangouts users. For others, though, sending messages as MMS is not as convenient – for example, if you were texting a Google Voice user, the messages might not have made it to their recipients at all. Others on older phone plans are charged more for MMS messages. Some really old phones still in use don’t even have the ability to download MMS messages properly.
There’s also a new option to import SMS messages, in case you use a backup and restore service but were unable to view messages that you thought you had restored.
Finally, some users are now able to edit APN settings directly in the Hangouts app. This particular feature is not functioning on my Nexus 5, but it does seem to be working correctly on some Samsung devices. Your mileage may vary.
Since Google’s new favorite thing is staggered rollouts, it might take a while for this particular update to reach your device through the Play Store. If you don’t like waiting, you can grab it from the Android Police source link below. Otherwise, simply wait your turn in line.
Download: Google Play
[Android Police]
