Google’s got a few updates coming to its chat app Allo.
Google is pushing an update to Allo today that improves your conversations. First up, the company is adding a Google Assistant shortcut. Previously you’d have to type @google to ask the Assistant a question in your chat, but now you can just tap the Assistant icon in your compose box and then ask away.
Speaking of the compose box, you can also now use it to search for GIFs. Tap the smiley icon in the box and then swipe left to search for the perfect GIF. You can also type @lucky and a phrase to insert a randomly selected GIF into your chat.
Finally, Google is adding animated emoji to Allo. Just select your emoji, touch and hold the send button, then drag up to animate the emoji you’ve selected. This feature currently works on 10 different emoji, including the Heart Eyes Emoji and Face With Tears of Joy Emoji.
This is a nice little update for Allo. The faster Assistant access will make it easier to find the info you’re looking for and insert it into your chat, and with GIFs as popular as they are now, it’s good that Google is making it better to find the perfect one.
These features are rolling out to Allo users on Android today, with an iOS update coming soon.