Google Matches Apple’s Facetime with Google Talk Video
Google announced video chatting capabilities for Google Talk in their Android 2.3.4 update. Thus far, video calling has been restricted to a few third party apps, including Qik. Pairing their video chat with Google Talk is a no-brainer, given the established based of Google Talk users – an advantage Google has to Apple’s Facetime, which is restricted to iOS and Mac products.
Still, Google needs to invest more time in their IM client. The actual Google Talk program has been left in the dust, without the AIM integration and video chat offerings that the in-browser Gmail version offers. Third parties, such as Skype are also expected to make moves in this market as more smartphones and tablets including front facing cameras.
This new Google Talk video chat feature will be available first for Nexus S users in the upcoming Android 2.3.4 update. No word yet on the ETA for other phones.
Source: Google Mobile Blog
Android, Android 2.3.4, google, Google Talk, Google Talk video, video chat