IT Services is excited to share that we’ll be transitioning the default chat option in Gmail to Google Chat.

Right now, some Miami community members are using Hangouts (either from the website or via browser extension). Beginning July 15, we will be migrating everyone to the new, sleeker Chat interface. This means all teams will be using Chat for 1:1 direct messages (DMs), group messages, and team discussions. Classic Hangouts apps will be turned off.

You don’t have to do anything! The Chat function in Gmail will remain where it is on the left sidebar, but it might look a little different. Here are some cool features you can expect to see when we make the cutover:

• 1:1 and group DMs
• Full-screen rooms
• Forward to inbox
• Emoji reactions
• Message edit and delete

This also means that all your classic Hangouts applications (including browser extensions) will be disabled. You will be directed to go to chat.google.com. However, you will still be able to access Hangouts at hangouts.google.com (including your old messages).

Quick guides are available from Google at their support site.

Note: This does not impact the Google Meet teleconferencing solution.

If you have any questions about this upgrade, please contact IT Help at 513-529-7900 or MiamiOH.edu/ITChat.