Google Hangouts is a communication platform developed by Google that allows users to connect through video calls, voice calls, and text messaging. It is designed for both personal and professional use, enabling individuals and groups to chat in real-time from their computers or mobile devices. The service integrates with other Google products, such as Google Calendar and Gmail, making it easy to schedule and join meetings. Users can create video conferences with multiple participants, share screens, and collaborate on projects, making it a popular choice for remote work and virtual gatherings.