Google Hangouts for iOS gets voice calling, but only in North America

Google has updated its Hangouts app for iOS to bring it up to speed with its Android counterpart. The update also brings along the ability to make calls – even though this is a US and Canada exclusive for now – as well as in-line animated GIF support.

Even while Hangouts on the desktop was given the ability to make calls back in July, the iOS app had been lagging behind. Now, you will be able to make calls via Hangouts using your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch. The free call feature is, however, only limited to the US and Canada for now. You will also now be able to use your Google Voice number – in areas that allows the feature – to make and receive calls using Hangouts.

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Of course, you can make international calls using Google Hangouts for iOS too, but that will happen for a small fee. The app will also have better indicators that will show you who’s online and who isn’t, a feature that we’ve seen in the Android side of things. Hangouts for iOS now also has inline GIF support for all those times where you think an animated critter or a scene off that movie show your feelings better than a typed out line.

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Lastly, Google says that it will now lower the music being played on the device instead of completely pausing it, a feature that could often get very annoying during long conversations. If you do not already have Google’s unified messaging app for your iOS device you can download Hangouts from the App Store.