It’s been almost a complete 12 months since we began speaking about how Google Hangouts was formally set to vanish. Since then, it looks like we’ve been repeating the identical factor each few months, just for Hangouts to stubbornly persist dwelling. If apps may discuss, Hangouts would in all probability declare, “what is dead may never die.” 

However, Google on Friday took another gradual step towards shutting off the lights at Hangouts for good. Spotted by 9to5Google, iOS and Android customers with free private accounts have begun seeing a banner that states that “Hangouts is being replaced by Google Chat.” (Google Chat is Google’s model of Slack, whereas Google Meet is its model of Zoom). Users additionally noticed a “Learn more” button that takes them to a support article explaining the change from Hangouts to Chat in addition to a button to “Switch to Chat in Gmail.”

The outlet explains that clicking on the change button will signal you out of the Hangouts cellular app, which signifies that you will now not obtain notifications from Hangouts or ship messages with the app. Google additionally reminds customers that their Hangouts conversations from the final 12 months are already obtainable in Chat, including that older conversations will probably be obtainable in a while.

Mobile units weren’t the one ones affected by this alteration. Google’s Hangouts web site equally started that includes a message saying, “It’s time to switch to Google Chat.” Users are then redirected to the Chat web site.

Sounds like a stable step in the direction of biting the mud, proper? I believed so too however then was reminded that Hangouts by no means dies. According to 9to5Google, cellular customers who aren’t able to say goodbye to Hangouts—which appears odd contemplating what number of instances its demise has been talked about within the media—can nonetheless use the app after Google indicators them out. All they should do is open the Hangouts app and add their account as soon as extra.

There is not any official finish date for Hangouts but. The firm says a “mandatory upgrade” for enterprise accounts will happen in late 2021, which is developing quickly, however no cutoff has been introduced for customers with free private accounts.

Now, I don’t have something towards Hangouts. I’m simply on the level the place each time I see one thing associated to it, I believe: “Wait, that’s still around?” In truth, when Google actually does pull the plug, I’d ask somebody to pinch me.