Google Duo has had an auspicious beginning with many people criticising it’s lack of features but that is not it’s priority. It’s priority is a simple video messaging solution that just works. Now it is looking to expand its user-base through an integration into the caller ID and dialer app, Truecaller.
Truecaller is an app used by over 150 million people and has functions such as identifying unknown callers (telemarketers), blocking spam SMS, know when your friends are free to talk and can identify anyone calling you. Their main function though has been to battle annoying calls and text messages. Truecaller is also installed by default onto the Huawei Mate 9 so expect to see it about more as more manufacturers include it in their ROMs.
Now Duo has been integrated into Truecaller in a way that the user can easily make a video call from the Truecaller dialer interface the same way you can make a phone call. This is a big step for Duo as it has struggled to gain traction in a world where so many video calling apps have been around for a long time. With WhatsApp dominating that scene Google Duo’s incorporation into Truecaller gives them a foot in the door so to speak, for so many users.
After using Truecaller on the Huawei Mate 9 I was very impressed with it. Usually I have a burning hatred for all things bloatware but this was a very useful app and will possibly switch to it when I can find someone else who uses Duo. I recommend giving it a shot at least for a few days, especially now that it has Duo embedded within it.
Have you used Truecaller before? What about Duo? Thoughts on each of these? Do you think this integration will help Duo with their user base?
