Google Hangouts for Web Updated With Streamlined Look and More

Google has started rolling out an update to Hangouts for Web that is claimed to bring a new calling experience for users. The update primarily brings quick and sharp rendering of images as well as streamlines the interface.

Announcing the update, Eduardo Fernandez, Software Engineer at Google said in a Google+ post that the update focuses on interface involving "less on where to click and more on what to say."

Some of the key changes in Hangouts for Web update include fast calling with crisper and higher quality of video, streamlined full-screen interface, and an easy way to invite friends and family to calls.

"We've been using this new calling experience at Google for a while now. It's early days, but we hope you like it as much as we do," added Fernandez. He also clarified that the new update is not available for Google Apps for Work customers.

Users who will still prefer the old version will get an option to switch to the previous version by clicking the top menu at the top right and choose "Original version."

The new Hangouts for Web will be rolling out to a small group of users starting Tuesday and will expand to users worldwide in the coming days.

The Google-powered messaging app started receiving a bug-fixing update last month. Hangouts v5.1 brought minor changes including send button along with some improvements to the app user interface and accessibility. Some bug fixes and overall performance improvements were made as well. There were no visual changes as such.