Facebook Launches Video Call and Group Chat Feature
Apparently, the big reveal of the Google+ Project has had other prominent social networking sites suddenly on their toes. Not long after its release, Facebook (FB) has also unveiled new features that deal with group chat and video calling.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time that Facebook introduced tweaks to their chat feature. Not too long ago, they have announced an integration of the chat function into messages. This time around, a number of changes have been made on the same tool.
• The chat list now puts priority on contacts that you have the most interaction with, whether or not they are online.
• New buttons on the chat box for group conversations and video calling (in partnership with Skype)
Given the timing and content of this recent development from FB, people cannot help but compare it with the similar offerings on Google+. From a personal perspective, I would still say that Hangouts has a definite edge at the moment over its Facebook equivalent since it allows video conferencing between more than two people.
As for group chats, it would appear that Huddle operates under the same principle. Still, plus points go to Google’s attempt at setting up privacy restrictions and offering more ways for users to connect with the various social circles they belong to.
Despite the clamour to have the old FB chat version back, passing judgement on the innovations that the Facebook team has made might just be premature. I have a feeling they are not going to sit on the sidelines with this one. We might as well wait and see what updates they come up with in the next few weeks. Social signals are starting to become an important part of SEO, so it would be best to keep tabs on developments like this.
The new Facebook chat features have not been completely rolled out so if you already have it on your account, do comment about it in the space provided below. For more information, click https://blog.facebook.com/blog.php?post=10150223135777131.
