Google launches Duo video-calling app, – Google Duo

Google has just started rolling out downloads for its new 1-to-1 video calling app, Duo, available for both Android and iOS 9 in 78 languages.

Here are the basic features:

•     It is simple. To get started, all you need is your phone number and you’ll be able to reach people in your phone’s contacts list. No separate account is required, so you can sign up in just a few steps.
•     It is fast and reliable.  Video calls connect quickly and work well even on slower networks. Call quality adjusts to changing network conditions to keep you connected — when bandwidth is limited, Duo will gracefully reduce the resolution to keep the call going smoothly. For video calls on the go, Duo will switch between Wi-Fi and cellular data automatically without dropping your call.
•     Emphasis on privacy and security.  All Duo calls are end-to-end encrypted.
•     It is non-intrusive.  To make calls feel more like an invitation rather than an interruption, Google created a feature in Duo called Knock Knock which lets you see live video of your caller before you answer, giving you a sense of what they’re up to and why they want to chat. Knock Knock makes video calling more spontaneous and welcoming, helping you connect with the person before you even pick up.