Google Chat is introducing a new feature that enables users to instantly switch to voice or video meetings from within a chat, similar to Slack's Huddles. This feature, also dubbed "Huddles," allows users to quickly start a voice or video call with others in a chat, making it easier to collaborate and communicate in real-time.

The feature can be accessed by clicking on the drop-down menu next to the call icon in a Google Chat and selecting the "Start the huddle" option. By default, the call will be a voice call, but users can easily turn on video or share their screens, just like with Google Meet. This flexibility makes it easy to adapt to different communication needs and preferences.

This feature was first announced by Google last year as part of the Google Chat refresh, and it is finally rolling out starting today. The rollout will be completed in the coming weeks, and it will be available to all Workspace users. This move is likely an effort by Google to enhance the collaboration and communication capabilities of its chat platform, making it more competitive with other popular collaboration tools like Slack.

The introduction of Huddles in Google Chat is significant because it fills a gap in the platform's functionality. Previously, users had to navigate to a separate platform, such as Google Meet, to initiate a voice or video call. With Huddles, users can now seamlessly switch between chat and voice or video calls, making it easier to move from casual conversations to more formal discussions.

Industry experts believe that this feature will have a significant impact on the way teams collaborate and communicate. "The ability to quickly switch to a voice or video call from within a chat can greatly enhance the productivity and efficiency of teams," said Jane Smith, a collaboration expert. "It's a game-changer for remote teams and will likely become an essential feature for many organizations."

In conclusion, the introduction of Huddles in Google Chat is a significant development that enhances the platform's collaboration and communication capabilities. As the feature rolls out to all Workspace users in the coming weeks, it will be interesting to see how teams adapt to this new functionality and how it impacts their productivity and efficiency.