After updating the Google+ last week, now the video call
service, Google Hangouts, receives an update too. This update is related to
guest access feature that has been presented since last year.
Previously users were already able to send a link to invite
someone into a conversation. This process wouldn't get a problem if the invited
person had made a Google account, but if he/she didn't have Google account, as
an alternative they had to try another video call service.
Well, starting today, the issue has been resolved. All
invited guests can join the conversation in Google Hangouts without having to
make Google account. So after receiving the link, the guests just need to put
their names to 'ask permission' to enter the conversation.
The permission is still needed for security reason; it means
that the conversation will not be disturbed by strangers. But don't worry, all
the video call participants who are joining the conversation may click
"Accept" when there are guests who ask for permissions to enter the
conversation, not only the host.
Skype actually already introduced similar feature. In fact,
Skype gives users the freedom to share links to conversations via email or
social media. Google Hangouts' users on the other hand can only send the links
via Google Calendar - although the recipients don't have to use the Google
Calendar.