Tech giant unveiled two new apps at recently concluded event

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May 20, 2016 2:38 PM

Google says the Allo app is a smart messaging app that makes your conversations easier and 'more expressive'.

Google Allo messaging app

Remember that Google I/O event I was talking about yesterday? Well, the Google Home device and Google Assistant weren't the only things Google announced at the event.

The tech giant also announced two new apps (How many apps does Google have again?): one is a smart messaging app called Allo and the other is a video calling app called Duo.

Google says the Allo app is a smart messaging app that makes your conversations easier and 'more expressive'. The app is based on your phone number so you will be able to add up anyone on your phonebook (Hello, WhatsApp?). It also has deeply integrated machine learning and other 'smart' features that aim to help keep conversations flowing.

Allo also has a smart reply built-in which lets you reply to messages without typing a single word. The smart reply feature also learns over time and will show suggestions that are your style e.g if you are a "lol" or "haha" person. The smart reply feature also works with photos and will provide you with smart replies when you receive pictures.

READ: Tech giant announces connected home device to take on Amazon Echo

Google Assistant is also integrated in the Allo app helping you find information, get things done, set reminders, and so on. The app also has an incognito mode, just like on Chrome, and end-to-end subscription as well as discreet notifications are also available.

Duo on the other hand is a simple, one-to-one video calling app available on Android and iOS. Like Allo, it is also based on your phone number with an interface that fades away during a call so that its just you and you guy (or girl).

One of the standout features of the Duo app is something called Knock Knock, a feature that lets you see a preview of the caller before you answer the call. The app also supports HD video (up to 720p) and audio. Google says it has optimized the app to work well even on spotty networks and auto switch between cellular and Wi-Fi. Finally, you also get end-to-end encryption.

Both apps will be available later this year, so stay with Pulse Tech for all you should know about them in a real life us case because I will be reviewing them.

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