Google launches instant messaging mobile app Allo

Google on 21 September 2016 launched its latest mobile chat application, Allo, along with Google Assistant that can be used in online conversations with friends.

The messaging app, which is available for Android and the iPhone, has similar features to most other messaging applications.

In Allo, messages are not encrypted end-to-end by default. However, the messages can be switched to an incognito mode to do so and set how long they exist before they are deleted.

Key highlights of Google Allo

• Allo's ‘Smart reply’ function uses Google's machine learning technology to suggest a reply to the last message, which can be selected from a few options.

• The feature also analyses images sent to the user in order to suggest responses.

• Similar to the smart reply feature seen in Google's Inbox app, it learns from the user's behaviour to adapt its suggestions over time.

• It supports Google Assistant, a conversational virtual assistant.

• A feature ‘Whisper Shout’ allows the user to increase or decrease the size of a message to represent volume.

• Allo also lets users draw on photos before sending them.

• Incognito mode is an optional mode that includes expiring chats, private notifications, and end-to-end encryption.

• For encryption, the app uses the Signal Protocol.

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