The Hangouts application is becoming more and more powerful and, for example, not long ago the possibility of make calls between users using the Internet (something that is still expected to happen with WhatsApp). Well, it has just been announced that in its next update Hangouts will allow file sharing when in a video call.
In this way, the productivity options offered by the development will be increased, since if a work communication is being carried out in which a text file needs to be shared, for example, it will now be possible with the development of Google that is It uses both desktop computers and operating systems such as Android. The point is that what is sent is a link that the other person can use and start the download.
Also, so that more or less you know what you are going to receive now that Hangouts will allow file sharing, it shows a preview in a lateral space specifically enabled for it. This is very useful, since sometimes it is possible that with the image you see it is not necessary to start the corresponding download, and I also ensure that what is shared is exactly what you want to use.
Using the functionality that Hangouts will allow you to share files is very simple: once you are in a video call, you just have to click on the Chat icon (it has a balloon with horizontal lines) and then you have to search another who has the Drive logo, the usual triangle but with the added "+" symbol. Now, you simply have to select the file you want to share or paste it directly on the chat screen. The recipient user can now manipulate what is received to save or open it.
The necessary update for the new functionality to be a reality has not yet been deployed (and the corresponding APK has not been released), but according to Google itself in the link that we leave at the end of this article, the deployment will begin in a matter of hours. Without a doubt, the power and integration of the developments of the Mountain View company is increasing.
Other applications for the optional Google system can be found at this section Android Help in which there is a very numerous list and that therefore surely there is some development that is interesting.
Source: Google.
How file sharing works in video calls with Hangouts and Google Drive
The option to share during the call is supported by Google Drive. When posting the link in the chat, you can choose whether access is limited to attendees or also to Calendar event guests who are not present. Participants receive a notification in the chat and if the file is from Drive, the permission settings you select when sharing are respected.
The preview side panel helps confirm it's the correct file before opening or downloading it. For team workflows, this quick view and the granular permissions (reader, commenter, or editor) avoid errors and speed up collaboration without leaving the call.
Present and share from Docs, Sheets, and Slides
If you work in Docs, Sheets, or Slides, you can join a video call or present it directly from the interface itself. On desktop computers, this feature requires supported browsers such as Chrome or Edge. When presenting a tab, the system prioritizes broadcast stability; therefore, when you present a specific browser tab, It is not possible to switch tabs without stopping or adjusting the presentation.
During the meeting, in addition to presenting, it is possible share the file link with all participants from the chat panel, so they can view, comment on, or edit it based on the permissions you grant them. If you need to switch between different documents, it's more convenient start the presentation from the meeting itself to switch between tabs with control.
Permissions, security and access control
Files in Drive are protected with encryption in transit and at rest, and your Google account has built-in defenses against spam, phishing and malwareWhen sharing, you can restrict access to attendees, calendar guests, or anyone with the link, as well as enable or block options such as download, print or copy for readers and commentators.
For educational or corporate environments, integration with Google Workspace and room hardware allows controlled access, invitations from Calendar and use of certified displays and peripherals without sacrificing collaboration in Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Even with room devices, users can share Drive files and collaborate in real time.
Meeting recordings: storing in Drive and troubleshooting
Recordings are available on desktop and, depending on the Workspace edition, can be triggered from within the meeting. Upon completion, the organizer and the person who recorded receive a link by email, and the file is automatically saved in the folder Meet recordings of the organizer within My Drive. If the message appears “Still being processed”, it may take a while to play; alternatively, you can download it and open it on your computer.
If the recording option does not appear, check with your administrator that the function is enabled. enabled in the console and join as a participant (not just to present). Please note that meetings created by room devices or through certain plugins may not allow recording depending on your organization's policy.
Very Large Files: When to Use Transfer Services
To share recordings or materials that exceed normal email limits, there are file transfer services that generate ready-to-send links. The most complete ones allow unlimited uploads, password protection, customizable links and, depending on the format, preview before downloadingThey're a quick and reliable option when you don't want to modify Drive permissions or need to send to external recipients without friction.
In return, some services impose limits on free plans or are geared toward individual submissions, so if you need to share openly and sustainably, Drive with its management of permits and activity may be more suitable for you.
Google's ecosystem for video calls and productivity offers a very complete flow: share links from the chat With previews, live document presentations, permission management and recording in Drive, and alternatives for large file sharing when needed. This way, both work meetings and online classes benefit from fast, secure, and controlled file sharing without leaving the video call.