Google Allo presents users with several options that they can simply tap to send a reply to messages. Image Google Research Blog
Last May, Google unveiled a “smart messaging app” called Allo at the I/O Conference. While Google had stated that they intended to release the app by the end of summer, well-known tipster Evan Blass tweeted that Allo would launch on Sept. 21.
Blass had first tweeted that Allo would launch within the week. A few hours later he updated his previous tweet with a more concrete date.
The Next Web reports that the app is to have features such as end-to-end encryption , stickers, text formatting options and temporary private messages. Allo will also have AI-powered features that utilizes machine learning to suggest different responses to text and graphic messages.
In essence, Allo will show users prompts whenever a contact sends a message. Instead of having to type out a response, users can simply tap on the presented options and send out the reply. It’s almost like playing an RPG. The app is even able to recognize a variety of dog breeds as well as types of pasta with 90% accuracy.
Allo will also work with Google Assistant and will stand in as a contact that users can chat with and ask questions. It may not be as quirky as Microsoft’s Cortana, but Allo has the advantage of being able to integrate into conversations with other people and provide suggestions such as restaurants that offer good dinners.
Google will be going up against stiff competition, as Messenger and WhatsApp have already garnered a massive user base. Whether Allo’s gimmicks can woo the public or not will be determined once the app formally enters the market and is ready for download. Alfred Bayle