Google Chat is rolling out instant voice meetings — similar to Slack’s Huddles — that let you quickly switch to a voice or video call from within a chat. Google is not giving the feature a new name, though, opting to call the feature “Huddles” as well.

If you are in a Google Chat, you can quickly start a huddle by clicking on the drop-down menu next to the call icon and then selecting the “Start the huddle” option.

The call will default to a voice call, but users can turn on video or share their screens, just like with Google Meet.

The feature, first announced by Google last year as part of the Google Chat refresh, is rolling out starting today and will be available to all Workspace users in the coming weeks.

Google has just announced a new feature in Google Chat that is similar to Slack’s Huddles. The feature, called “Spaces,” allows users to create virtual rooms for real-time conversations and collaborations. In this article, we’ll discuss the details of Google Chat’s Spaces feature and how it compares to Slack’s Huddles.

What are Google Chat Spaces?

Google Chat Spaces are virtual rooms that allow users to have real-time conversations and collaborations. Spaces are designed to provide a more informal and flexible way of communicating and collaborating, compared to traditional email or video conferencing.

Spaces are created within Google Chat and can be accessed from the Google Chat app on desktop or mobile devices. Users can create multiple Spaces for different topics, projects, or teams, and can invite others to join the Space.

Features of Google Chat Spaces

Google Chat Spaces have several features that make them useful for real-time conversations and collaborations. Some of the key features include:

1. Real-time Messaging: Spaces allow users to send real-time messages, including text, images, and videos.
2. Audio and Video Calls: Users can make audio and video calls within a Space, allowing for more interactive and engaging conversations.
3. File Sharing: Users can share files within a Space, making it easy to collaborate on documents and projects.
4. Integrations: Spaces integrate with other Google apps, such as Google Drive and Google Calendar, making it easy to access and share information.
5. Customization: Users can customize their Spaces with different colors, logos, and themes, making it easy to create a unique and personalized experience.

Comparison to Slack’s Huddles

Slack’s Huddles is a similar feature that allows users to create virtual rooms for real-time conversations and collaborations. While both Google Chat Spaces and Slack’s Huddles offer similar functionality, there are some key differences.

1. Integration: Google Chat Spaces integrate with other Google apps, such as Google Drive and Google Calendar, making it easy to access and share information. Slack’s Huddles, on the other hand, integrate with other Slack apps and services.
2. Customization: Google Chat Spaces offer more customization options, such as different colors, logos, and themes, making it easy to create a unique and personalized experience. Slack’s Huddles, on the other hand, have a more limited set of customization options.
3. Pricing: Google Chat Spaces are included with a Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) subscription, which starts at $6 per user per month. Slack’s Huddles, on the other hand, are included with a Slack subscription, which starts at $7.25 per user per month.

Benefits of Google Chat Spaces

Google Chat Spaces offer several benefits, including:

1. Improved Collaboration: Spaces provide a more informal and flexible way of communicating and collaborating, making it easier to work with others in real-time.
2. Increased Productivity: Spaces can help users stay focused and on track, by providing a dedicated space for real-time conversations and collaborations.
3. Enhanced Communication: Spaces provide a more interactive and engaging way of communicating, making it easier to build relationships and trust with others.
4. Better Organization: Spaces can help users organize their conversations and collaborations, making it easier to find and access information.

Conclusion

Google Chat Spaces are a powerful new feature that provides a more informal and flexible way of communicating and collaborating. With its real-time messaging, audio and video calls, file sharing, and integrations with other Google apps, Spaces are an ideal solution for teams and organizations looking to improve their collaboration and productivity. While Slack’s Huddles offer similar functionality, Google Chat Spaces offer more customization options and integrate with other Google apps, making it a more comprehensive solution.

Google Chat’s new feature, Spaces, offers a range of benefits for individuals and teams looking to improve their communication and collaboration. Here are some of the key benefits of Google Chat’s take on Slack’s Huddles:

1. Improved Collaboration: Spaces provide a more informal and flexible way of communicating and collaborating, making it easier to work with others in real-time.

2. Increased Productivity: By providing a dedicated space for real-time conversations and collaborations, Spaces can help users stay focused and on track.

3. Enhanced Communication: Spaces provide a more interactive and engaging way of communicating, making it easier to build relationships and trust with others.

4. Better Organization: Spaces can help users organize their conversations and collaborations, making it easier to find and access information.

5. Real-time Feedback and Discussion: Spaces allow users to provide real-time feedback and engage in discussions, making it easier to collaborate and make decisions.

6. Increased Transparency and Visibility: Spaces provide a transparent and visible way of communicating and collaborating, making it easier to track progress and stay informed.

1. Reduced Email Overload: By providing a dedicated space for real-time conversations and collaborations, Spaces can help reduce email overload and improve communication efficiency.

2. Improved Mobile Experience: Spaces provide a seamless and intuitive mobile experience, making it easier to communicate and collaborate on-the-go.

3. Tight Integration with Google Apps: Spaces integrate tightly with other Google apps, such as Google Drive and Google Calendar, making it easier to access and share information.

4. Security and Compliance: Spaces provide enterprise-grade security and compliance features, making it easier to meet regulatory requirements and protect sensitive information.

5. Scalability and Flexibility: Spaces can scale to meet the needs of large and distributed teams, providing a flexible and adaptable solution for communication and collaboration.

6. Cost-Effective: Spaces are included with a Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) subscription, making it a cost-effective solution for teams and organizations.

7. Easy to Use: Spaces are easy to use and require minimal training, making it easier for users to get started and start collaborating.

8. Customizable: Spaces can be customized to meet the specific needs of teams and organizations, providing a tailored solution for communication and collaboration.

9. Integration with Other Tools and Services: Spaces integrate with a range of other tools and services, making it easier to incorporate into existing workflows and processes.