Gmail chat, also known as Google Hangouts, is a communication platform that allows users to message, video call, and share files with their contacts. It’s a great tool to utilize for both personal and professional correspondences. In this guide, we will show you how to use Gmail chat.
Accessing Gmail Chat
First things first, you have to log into your Gmail account. Once you’re in, you’ll see the chat option on the left sidebar just below your folders. Click on the ‘+’ sign next to ‘Chat’ and ‘Spaces’ to start a new conversation or join an existing one.
Starting a New Conversation
To start a new conversation, click on the ‘+New Chat’ option. You’ll be prompted to type in the email address or name of the person you’d like to chat with. Once you’ve typed it in, Gmail will autocomplete the rest if the person is in your contacts list. Click on their name to start the chat.
Sending a Message
Below the contact’s name, there will be an empty text box. This is where you type your message. To send it, either press Enter on your keyboard or click on the arrow button to the right of the text box.
Starting a Video Call
Sometimes, a simple text message isn’t enough and you may want to start a video chat. To do this, click on the video camera icon at the top right of the chat window. This will send an invite to the contact to join a Google Hangouts video call. They can accept the invite by clicking on the link provided.
Sharing Files
Sharing files is also pretty straightforward. Just click on the paperclip icon at the bottom right of the chat window, select the file you want to share, and click Open. The file will then be sent to the contact in the chat.
Settings
If you want to change your chat settings, click on the gear icon in the top right corner of the chat window. From here, you can change the notification settings, archive or delete the conversation, or block the contact.
Gmail chat is a versatile tool that integrates seamlessly with your email. It’s fast, efficient, and allows you to communicate with your contacts in real time. So why not give it a go and start chatting?