Maybe the most differentiating feature of Google+ that puts it above any other social media network is their Google+ Hangout feature. Yet, with video chat options like Apple’s FaceTime or Skype, Google has felt the need to differentiate themselves even further from the crowd.
Thus, we present Google+ Hangout On Air.
Here are a few of its features:
- Broadcast publicly. By checking “Enable Hangouts On Air,” you can broadcast your live hangout—from the Google+ stream, your YouTube channel or your website—to the entire world.
- See how many viewers you’ve got. During your broadcast, you can look inside the hangout to see how many people are watching live.
- Record and re-share. Once you’re off the air, we’ll upload a public recording to your YouTube channel, and to your original Google+ post. This way it’s easy to share and discuss your broadcast after it’s over.
[tentblogger-youtube ohlHn6Kt5YM]
This new feature opens up some new possibilities, for sure!
What do you foresee this being used for?
For Church and ministries?
[via Google Blog]
Kleber Costa says
I thought this could be useful for streaming church services for free. Not sure if that would work. The save to YouTube feature is great but again, not sure if there is any time limitation for it. I have concerns regarding the video thumbnails on the screen, this could be distracting and show inappropriate content.
For other type of interactive gatherings this might be a way to go…
Henry says
Kleber,
It’s been a while you’ve posted this, but I think this is a great topic, so I’m replying to your post! I think that live streaming church services a great idea, and I would challenge all who read this to press the envelope “traditional” use of technology. For instance, this tool would be an excellent way to include traveling or absent member of say, an pastoral committee or church board, to attend a meeting while on the road. This would also create the opportunity for churches to become ultra transparent, posting entire board meetings (at least the parts appropriate for the general congregation) online, cutting down on paper used for minutes and manuscripts and what not. Google+ Hangout could also be used to facilitate broadly inclusive online prayer meetings (these could reach across continents!). Remote counseling. Video blogging. Worship teams practicing via Hangout when a common meeting is not possible. Documenting outreach and missions. Keeping in close contact with overseas missionaries. The possibilities are only as limited as our imaginations! The wisdom of God + Google+ Hangout = crazy awesome advancement of His Kingdom!!