Genius Google Chrome update lets you make 12-person video calls straight from browser
GOOGLE Chrome users can now make video calls directly from their browser for free – with up to 12 pals at a time.
It works through a web version of Duo, Google's own video chat app.
Invites to join a group call can be sent to anyone with a Google account.
They won't need to download an app, and simply connect through their web browser.
"Most of my family lives in Colombia, South America, and video calling has been a life-changing way for my dad and grandparents to watch my daughters grow up," said Google's Humberto Castaneda.
Alternatively, you can just download the mobile app on iOS or Android.
If you use Google Calendar, you'll be able to join meetings from there too.
First, go to the website and sign in with your Google account, which you can create with any email.
If you don't have a Google account, don't panic. They're free to set up and it only takes a few minutes.
You can then invite other users through the website or app.
Of course, Google already offers another dedicated video-calling app – Google Meet.
This was previously aimed at businesses, but was recently made free for all users.
Better still, there's no time limit on group video calls until at least September, so it's a strong Zoom rival.
In a blog post, Google suggested using Meet for "a virtual yoga class, weekly book club, neighbourhood meeting, or happy hour with friends".
If you can't access Google Meet immediately, there's nothing to worry about.
Google is rolling the service out to "more and more people" over several weeks.
In other news, we reveal the most popular Google Doodle games.
This Google Chrome trick can reveal if you've been hacked.
And find out how to access Google's 3D augmented reality animals.
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