Google offers multiple products for videoconferencing and chat, with considerable feature overlap and similar names. Here are the distinctions:
- Google Duo: Person-to-person video calling, like Apple FaceTime. Works from a browser and on Android and iOS devices. Participants must both have a Google account (either a Gmail address, or as a G Suite customer).
- Google Hangouts: Small-group video conferencing (up to 10 participants). All participants must have a Google account. Works from a browser and Android or iOS devices.
- Google Meet (Formerly Google Hangouts Meet): Large-scale videoconferencing, roughly comparable to Zoom
- Google Hangouts Chat: A team collaboration system like Microsoft Teams
Cost
All of the products listed above are free to use when you are logged into your MSU GSuite account (costs may apply if trying to use your personal account).
Security and Safety Recommendations
Do not share meeting information (links, passwords) in a public place like a website; communicate this information directly to registered participants only.
