Most apps that use Google Hangouts API will shut down in April

While Google has stated many times that it has no plans to shut down its Hangouts messaging service, it has decided to end support for its third-party developer tools. The company has quietly updated its FAQ for the Google Hangouts API, stating that no new apps will be allow to access those tools.

In addition, most of the existing apps that are currently using the Google Hangouts API will no longer work after April 25. There will be a few exceptions, which will include Google’s own Hangouts on Air broadcasting tools like Toolbox, Control Room, and Cameraman, along with business and enterprise oriented apps like Slack that integrate with the API. Finally, apps that support dialing into a call like DialPad and RingCentral will also be allowed to use the API after the expiration date.

In 2016, Google launched new messaging apps like Allo and Duo, and the company has now begun pre-installing Duo on new Android devices, replacing Hangouts. However, both Duo and Allo are currently mobile-only apps, while Hangouts also has PC desktop support, along with deep integrations with other services like Gmail and Google Docs. That makes Hangouts better for its many business and enterprise customers, which Google still wants to support.