Hangouts v2 preinstalled on Nexus 5, updated in Play Store in coming weeks

Hangouts v2

New information revealed about SMS integration, statuses and sharing options

Google announced at an event this week that new features would be coming in the latest version of Hangouts, and now we have a better idea of when and specifically what we'll be getting. First up is SMS and MMS integration Google says you'll be able to receive text messages in Hangouts, and you can even import existing conversations when you make the move. SMS support also extends to group texts and emoji support between Android and iPhone.

You will also be able to send animated GIFs in Hangouts, including Auto Awesome animated photos made through Google+. Even further, you can now set status indicators showing what device you're currently using, whether or not you're in a call and what your mood is (if you're into that kinda thing). You'll also be able to share your granular location on a map (shown above).

Google says there are also several subtle improvements to the way Hangouts works, including the ability to share photos from Google Drive, faster ways to start chats and under-the-hood performance jumps. The Nexus 5 will be the first device to have access to the latest version of Hangouts and all of its new features, but rest assured that you'll get the update on any device running Android 4.0 and above in the coming weeks.

Source: +Randall Sarafa