Google Duo — Free Calls & Mini-Conferences

Google Duo is a free platform for instant messaging and video calls. It allows parlaying tête-à-têtes as well as making video and audio group calls. With its inbuilt visual effects, conference options, and pretty satisfying quality, Google Duo is a must-have during the lockdown. 

Features 8.5/10

The app is a classic messenger. You get unlimited chatting with Google Duo. As well as calls, pre-recorded messages, cute effects, and so forth. So, staying in touch every day isn't a problem at all. Plus, they added a more intricate encryption algorithm recently. 

That means your messages and calls are extra-protected. So, be it a quick message like "How are you?" Or an elegant Byronesque poem, describing the agony caused by your roommate's mouth garlic stench — no one else will acquire this info.

Group calls allow up to 12 participants at the same time. Not that much if you compare it to Zoom or Faceapp. At the same time, Duo beats WhatsApp and Houseparty by four people. Not that bad, although creating separate chat rooms isn't an option with Duo.

You can record video and voice messages. The recipient will check them whenever they have time. In turn, such a note can be permanently deleted. 

Or you can turn a short vid into a souvenir. The augmented reality effects let you put an emotional touch to the video. Such a commonplace like I miss you can transform into a heart-warming video postcard. That won't lose its color over the years. 

Another thing to like is the privacy: Google Duo doesn't let random strangers bug you. Only the people who are you in your contact list can do this. So, with the app, you can enjoy a real privacy fence.  

Ease of Use 8/10

Google Duo isn't a brainer at all. Once you allow it to scan the phone book and verify your number, the engines are ready to go. However, it suffers from certain issues that make this app a stubborn donkey. Sometimes, you will deal with poor sound/picture synchronization.

Other times, you may be annoyed that the application, when shut, doesn't let calls go through. Although it's's done for your own good, you may just forget to activate the app.

Design 7/10

Google Duo has a straightforward outlay. Every button is self-explanatory. After just a few minutes, you'll learn how to record VMs via holding the mic button and where these soul-touching AR effects are hidden. Plain and smooth, Duo doesn't blind you with a topsy-turvy GUI. 

Pricing

The app is free to use and features no ads. If you're an Android adept, odds are it's been pre-installed on your gadget. If you're more of an Apple person, grab it from the App Store. And for more convenience, there's a browser extension.

Summary

If you need to manage small collective, shovel a few ideas with your creative team, or just miss your close ones — try Google Duo. It offers a batch of useful features for $0.