Google taking a small step to improving Allo with desktop access

February 25, 2017

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Google taking a small step to improving Allo with desktop access 3

In a week of improvements and changes for their messaging platforms, Google revealed on Thursday that they have another update in the pipeline. This change will impact Allo and takes the form of desktop access to the messaging client. When we checked with our TalkAndroid readers, one item that came up as a way to improve Allo was cross-platform access versus the current single device limitation. Making a desktop “client” available to Allo users would be a step in that direction.

Google's Nick Fox revealed the work on an alternative method to access Allo via a Twitter post showing a screenshot of the interface. In his tweet, Fox indicates work is “still early in development.” The desktop access itself is shown as a web interface running through a browser. At least some of the responses reveal a desire on the part of users for a distinct, dedicated desktop client for Allo, but access through a web browser is still a significant addition to the platform.

This pending change to Allo comes at the same time that Google rebranded their Messenger app to Android Messages and continue their work to try to get the world to adopt RCS as a replacement to SMS for messaging. Meanwhile, there is still no sign that Google is any closer to adding SMS support to Allo despite it being an overwhelming “must have” for users and Google's own indications that they plan to support it at some time.

Still in early development, but coming to a desktop near you… #GoogleAllo #SneakPeek pic.twitter.com/f7QNFH7IHO

— Nick Fox (@thefox) February 24, 2017

This latest news also does nothing to help consumers settle on a platform to use for their messaging needs. The choices are plentiful with Android Messages, the combination of Duo and Allo, Hangouts, and potentially Google Voice for some users.

source: Nick Fox (Twitter)

Jeff Causey Author

Raised in North Carolina, Jeff Causey is a licensed CPA in North Carolina. Jeff's past Android devices include an HTC EVO, a Samsung Note II, an LG G3, and a Motorola Moto X Pure Edition along with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet 10.1. He currently uses a Samsung Galaxy S8 and (very rarely) a Nexus 7 (2013). He is also using a Verizon-branded Motorola Moto Z Play Droid supplied by his job. Jeff used to have a pair of Google Glass and a Moto 360 Sport in his stable of gadgets. Unfortunately, his kids have all drunk the Apple Kool-Aid and have i-devices. Life at home often includes demonstrations of the superiority of his Android based devices. In his free time, Jeff is active an active runner usually training for his next marathon, owns a Mazda MX-5 Miata, and plays Dungeons & Dragons. Jeff has three grown kids and a golden retriever.