Google Talk was an instant messaging service developed by Google, allowing users to communicate via text, voice, and video. Launched in 2005, it integrated with other Google services, such as Gmail, enabling seamless communication for users. In 2013, Google Talk was replaced by Google Hangouts, which expanded its features to include group chats and video conferencing. While Google Talk was popular for its simplicity and ease of use, the transition to Hangouts marked Google's shift towards a more comprehensive communication platform.