The whole foundation of Google is a search engine that can answer people’s questions, now they are expanding so that humans can answer them too.
At the beginning of November, Google announced ‘Helpouts’. This is where people will be able to video-link up to other experts to receive advice on home improvements, cooking, or even medical advice. The benefit of this is that Google will vet the companies before they are allowed into this marketplace, and then it will give them a platform using a real-time video.
Currently 1,000 companies have been asked to take part, with Google keeping it as an invitation-only opportunity so far.
‘Helpouts’ also highlights a lot of Google’s other products. The video conferencing is done through Google Hangouts, all payments are made through Google Wallets and all users must have a Google+ profile in order to join a Helpout.
The main issues are that of safety. Connecting with strangers on video chat is one thing, but then transferring money for this can be more problematic. Google has put in a handful of safeguards in the hope of avoiding any issues and is even HIPAA-Certified, meaning any medical issues discussed are done so whilst keeping patient confidentiality.
So far all responses to the app have been very positive. The quality of the help is bound to vary as each instructor is contracted individually, but Google is working with top companies such as Weight Watchers in order to try and maintain a good level of advice. A huge plus is that Google are giving refunds if you are not happy with your service!
Helpouts has an app available on Google Play and will soon be available on IOS.
