Google Chat is introducing Huddles, a new feature powered by Google Meet that enables quick, on-the-fly calls with coworkers. Originally announced over a year ago as part of a customer preview, the feature is finally rolling out and is expected to be available to all Google Workspace users by January 6th.
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Huddles bear a striking resemblance to Slack’s similarly named feature, even borrowing the same name. While competition among office suites is fierce, this direct parallel underscores the growing similarities in functionality across platforms.
Starting a Huddle in Google Chat is straightforward. Click the dropdown menu at the top of a chat and select “Start a huddle.” This action initiates an audio call invite, which can seamlessly transition into a video chat, mirroring Google Meet’s interface. The feature also allows screen sharing, enhancing collaboration and multitasking within Chat.
Since its major overhaul last year, Google Chat has introduced several updates, including Gemini-powered AI summaries, the ability to reply directly or tag colleagues, and a voice recording feature. While these enhancements are useful, the delayed arrival of Huddles leaves some wondering why such a practical, real-time communication tool wasn’t prioritized earlier. Still, its addition is a welcome improvement, providing a more dynamic and interactive way to engage with team members.
Huddles aim to streamline communication and reduce the friction of starting quick meetings, particularly for users already embedded in the Google Workspace ecosystem. The feature reflects Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance Chat’s versatility and functionality, further positioning it as a competitor in the ever-evolving workspace collaboration market.
While late to the party, the rollout of Huddles could mark a significant step in making Google Chat a more indispensable tool for real-time team communication.
