Google Duo will be Integrated With Pixel 2’s Dialler App, SMS, and contacts apps Could Come to Other Smartphones: Report

Google is updating its latest couple of communications apps: Google Allo and Google Duo. Google may have big plans to extend the reach of its video calling service, Google Duo. The latest news comes in the form of integrating Google Duo in the dialer app on the new Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL smartphones so that Google’s Duo Video calling service can be activated at the tap of a button without even opening the app.

When launched, Google Duo came across as a regular video/audio calling app that works on different platforms and is directly linked to your phone number. The app has the upper hand in the connectivity segment as it even works for spotty internet connections. Also, features like “Knock Knock” on the app make it a better alternative for those who want privacy. The Knock Knock feature shows the live video of the caller if the recipient has the contact added to their list.

With the latest versions of the Google Pixel’s Phone app, Contacts app, and Android Messages app (13.0, 2.1, and 2.6 respectively), and as seen on the Google Pixel 2, you’ll be able to see a video icon next to a contact’s name who is already using Duo. You’ll see this icon in the call history window, next to a contact’s name, or within the SMS conversation with any person who is registered on Duo.

Google is adding a new banner to the dialer that explains what Duo is, but the company is also adding a button that allows users to easily launch a Duo call from the dialer app.