Google Chat Adds Huddles: Slack-Inspired Instant Meetings for Teams

Google Chat has launched a new feature called Huddles, designed to make real-time collaboration more efficient by allowing users to quickly initiate voice or video meetings directly from their chat conversations.

This new functionality is similar to Slack’s Huddles and aims to streamline communication by integrating audio-first meetings directly into the chat experience.

Key Features of Google Chat Huddles:

• Instant Meetings: Users can start a Huddle by selecting the drop-down menu next to the call icon in a chat, eliminating the need for separate meeting links.
• Audio-First Default: Meetings begin as audio calls, with the option to switch to video or share screens, much like Google Meet.
• Floating Meeting Controls: A floating window with meeting controls appears once the Huddle starts, allowing users to resize or move it while multitasking.
• Integration with Google Meet: Huddles are powered by Google Meet technology, ensuring high-quality audio and features like background noise reduction for clear conversations.
• User Notifications: Participants in the chat are notified when a Huddle begins, ensuring everyone stays informed and ready to join.

Availability

Huddles began rolling out on November 27, 2024 and will be fully available to all Google Workspace users in the coming weeks. The feature will be extended to Business and Enterprise plans starting January 6, 2025.

With Huddles, Google Chat enhances real-time collaboration by reducing friction when transitioning from text-based chats to voice or video calls. This feature strengthens Google Chat’s position in the competitive landscape of workplace communication tools.