19 June 2014

Hangouts Integration in Google Search



Some of the phone numbers from Google's Knowledge Graph cards are now linked and open Google Hangouts. When you search for a local business, Google usually displays the phone number next to the address. Click the phone number and you can call directly from your browser using Google Hangouts, which opens in a pop-up window and informs you about the fees. Calls made to the U.S. and Canada are free.






For searches like [john radcliffe hospital phone number], Google shows a separate card that includes the phone number.









It's interesting to notice that not all phone numbers are clickable. Phone numbers from local search results or from ads don't have links. Another exception: customer service numbers.



{ via Search Engine Roundtable }

Chromecast Support for YouTube Live Streams



Chromecast is now even more useful: you can watch YouTube's live streams. This should work in YouTube's mobile apps and in Chrome for Android.



Here's a screenshot from YouTube's app for Android:






"With Chromecast available in 18 countries and YouTube live streams happening on the regular, we wanted to share one of our favorite ways to use Chromecast. Head to one of the live streams in the YouTube app, just press the cast button, then kick back and enjoy these live events from the comfort of your living room," informs Google.



Here are some live streams you can watch:



* ASP World Tour (surfing)

* Adidas Dugout live from Rio (football / soccer)

* Birds, puppies, cats and more streaming live @ The Pet Collective

* other live streams



Apparently, "YouTube Live streams cannot be viewed from Germany." Here's an explanation: "because of the German law (RStV), you must have a broadcast licence from the media authorities when you make a live stream that can reach more than 500 people at the same time. Not getting one would result in a fine of up to 500000€. "