Google Chat’s new connectivity feature allows users to send messages to Microsoft Teams and Slack. The tech giant first unveiled the cross-platform messaging function at the Google Cloud Next 2023 event, but it is now only available in beta to a small number of users. With the latest update, all paid Google Workspace subscribers can send messages to Teams and Slack users. Individuals and businesses must utilise the Mio app to access the features.
According to the firm, “Interoperability will enable organisations that use Google Chat and other messaging platforms within their domain to provide a more seamless experience for their users.” This means that users will only be able to use this function to send messages to members of their organisation. This could be beneficial for texting coworkers from different teams that use a distinct app for communication.
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However, there is one caveat. Google Chat does not provide a cross-platform chatting option. Customers can download and install the Mio app to enable interoperability. This will be tricky because businesses will need to acquire an additional licence to use the function. Despite the further stages, it might be a beneficial feature for large organisations that only use a single messaging platform for some of their teams.
The firm has been testing cross-platform chat functionality between Google Chat, Microsoft Teams, and Slack for the past year, with restricted access for some users. At this year’s Cloud Next event, Google said that the feature would be rolled out to all paying Workspace customers, and it began rolling out internationally last week.
Slack made its artificial intelligence (AI) services available to all premium users internationally. Users with a paid subscription to the platform can now purchase an add-on to enable features, including recaps, search, and conversation summaries. The business also plans to introduce a note-taking summary-generating tool to its voice and video calling app, Huddle.
Conclusion
Google Chat’s latest connectivity feature represents a huge step forward in enabling seamless conversation across several devices. This connection improves collaboration and efficiency for teams working in multiple contexts by allowing users to send messages to Microsoft Teams and Slack directly from Google Chat. This initiative demonstrates Google’s dedication to promoting interoperability and ensuring users can communicate seamlessly regardless of their platform. As firms implement hybrid work methods and use different collaboration platforms, this feature demonstrates the value of interoperability and cross-platform communication in today’s digital landscape.