Google has revealed that they will be rolling out a small upgrade to their Android Gingerbread OS; officially called Android 2.3.4 the update will bring a Google version of Facetime to a select number of handsets.
The application will be called Gtalk video chat, not the best name in the world but judging by the video below it seems that it has the potential for being a big hit. The update will first come to the Nexus S with other Gingerbread equipped phones receiving the upgrade shortly after, more on the problem with this later.
Just like Apple’s Facetime calls will be free, this includes video and voice calls over 3G or wi-fi to any other device equipped with the software, initially only Nexus S owners will be able to communicate with each other using the app.
Herein lies the problem, Android is so fragmented that a huge percentage of handsets do not have the required Android 2.3 which means the same huge percentage will not be able to use the new Google talk app.
Alternatively users can download Qik video, which is also free and allows video calls to any platform where the app is installed – it’s pretty neat because any Smartphone with a front facing camera can use it so if your buddy has an iPhone you can still speak with them.
Another hot rumour is that Skype will also be coming to Android in the near future which is already used by such a huge user base that it could render the new Google app obsolete before it even gets off the ground.
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Do you think the new Google Talk for Android will be a hit?
