Google Hangouts is just one of the amazing applications that Google created for its users.
Google Hangouts provides a platform for users where they can chat and communicate with those who have been added to their contact list. Groups can also be created in this service, using which contacts can participate in group discussions. Another useful feature in Google Hangouts is its in-built software which allows video conferences.
Here we have presented few tips and tricks using which users can make their experience with Google Hangouts all the more pleasing and exciting.
Here are some tricks that will help you in Google Hangouts
Usage of shortcuts on your keyboard
While you are on a video conference call, you can carry out actions in a faster manner with the usage of keyboard shortcuts. You may need to manipulate your microphone instantly while on an important call. Shortcuts are there to mute and un-mute the microphone with the click of a button. Similarly, a lot of other actions can be performed such as switching the webcam on/off and opening multiple chat windows. If you don’t know which keys to use for a particular shortcut, you can type the sign of a question mark (?) in the particular video call’s window.
Usage of Chat commands
Google hangout is basically created for chatting and conducting group discussions. Users can share any data or information as well as links using chat commands. You can use chat if you would like to chat with a person from the hangout in private. These kinds of message are called Private Messages. For sending private messages, the sender has to type ‘/to’ following which the receiver’s name will be typed. It is the recipient’s choice whether he/she wants to reply to a private message privately or in the public window.
Usage of Headsets
Use a headset for better and clearer hearing sense. When you use the speakers of the computer or a microphone, the connection can get disturbed because of which conversations may not be clear. Sound quality is enhanced with the use of a headset.
Option to mute the microphone
If you are not interested to be a part of a hangout conversation, then the microphone can be muted so that it does not become a disturbance. Muting the microphone also benefits the other people in the conversation as their connection becomes clearer without much noise. In order to mute the microphone, the microphone button is present on top of the conversation window. The <Ctrl> + D keyboard shortcut can also be used for muting the microphone.
Limit your usage of bandwidth
The quality of a video call reduces drastically when your computer’s speed is slowing down due to less storage space or if the internet connection is very slow. You can fix this issue by changing the bandwidth and limit its usage for that particular time. The least bandwidth is for audio only and the highest bandwidth is for AutoHD. The icon for bandwidth is located on the menu bar.