Gmail users will receive a prompt to switch to the newer messaging service, but their accounts will automatically be transitioned to Hangouts after the date.
One major change for Hangouts is that it will not receive SMS anymore. You will be prompted to switch to another app, like Android Message, which they are positioning as the “primary place to access SMS” on your Android device.
But what does this mean for office workers who use Google Talk to chat with coworkers, family, and friends all day long?
If you use the Google Talk app on your phone, you will need to install Hangouts now, as the old Google Talk app will stop functioning. Android users who use Hangouts to access SMS or text messages will need to switch to Android Messages, if they want to continue the service.
Hangouts, which offers enhanced features such as group video calling and integration with other Google products, will in turn evolve into Hangouts Meet and Hangouts Chat.
Android Hangouts SMS users will be asked to use a different messaging app on their devices. If they don’t use any, they will be directed to go to Google Play Store to download any app. All messages will be accessible via a new app and it will not affect the existing messages.
As Gmail prepares to receive the Gmail Add-Ons feature, some Gmail Labs features will be retired. This includes Authentication Icon, Google Voice Player, Picasa previews, Pictures in chat, Quick Links, Quote Selected Text, Smartlabels, and Yelp previews.
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