Google Duo

Zift Advisory

The Google Duo app is a video calling app, similar to Skype or Facetime, that allows users to make video or voice calls and leave video messages. This app can be downloaded from the App Store and the Google Play Store. The Google Duo app is rated for users of all ages and does not feature in-app purchases or advertisements.

About Google Duo

What is Google Duo?

Google Duo is a video calling app that’s categorized as a social networking app.

This app is available for download in the App Store and the Google Play Store. It is rated for users of all ages and does not feature any in-app purchases or advertisements.

Once downloaded, users can open the app and immediately start communicating with family and friends in a video format.

The interface is simple and the app works with Wi-Fi or without. A simple down swipe and then a tap and you’re ready to start recording. You then select from your contact list to initiate the video call.

You can select up to 5 contacts at a time to receive the video call. If it’s not a convenient time for loved ones to receive your call, you can leave a video message asking for a call back.

As a way to screen calls, the live video preview feature allows you to see who’s calling before you pick up. You also have the option of making voice-only calls in the event that it’s not a convenient time for a video call.

Apps similar to Google Duo include Skype, BOTIM by Algento Cloud Computing Limited and Marco Polo by Joya Communications. As of 12/20/18, this app received updates in the form of bug fixes, performance enhancements, availability on Android tablets, and ability to leave video messages. On average, users give this app a rating of 4.6/5.0. Overall, users are impressed with the call quality (both video and audio) and there are few complaints.

Is Google Duo safe for my kids?

This app is generally safe for kids but there are a couple of caveats.

Although there are no third-party ads or in-app purchases, parents need to monitor the contact list of their children to ensure that they are only interacting with people who aren’t likely to expose them to inappropriate language or images.

Also, because data charges may apply when children are interacting with others in their contact lists, parents need to have open communication regarding the possibility of charges applying to their calls. Parents may need to limit the contact list to people for whom data charges won’t apply.