There aren’t many people (online) in this world who can get away with Google. It’s everywhere. Or at least that’s what people say. Google is the gateway to everything Android, and some of the top downloaded apps on the Apple App Store are Google apps.
One place where Google is oddly absent is Windows Phone. Of course, we all know a little bit about MS and Google’s troubled past but if Microsoft can bring Office to the iPad why can’t Google bring its amazing suite of apps to Windows Phone? That is something to think about.
But right now, we need a quick fix. If you have a Windows Phone for work or have been using Google services for too long to quit (Gmail is the best), there are several official and unofficial ways to get Google Mail, Maps and Gtalk (Hangouts) to Windows Phone.
Google mail
As I showed in the article transferring contacts to Windows Phone 8.1, importing contacts, calendar and mail from Google is as easy as signing in.
Go Setting -> Email + account -> Add an account -> Google and enter your details. Please make sure that Letters options are checked. If you look in the app list, there’s an app called Google mail where you will find all your messages. The app doesn’t have as many features as the app on Android or iOS, but it works well. You can even pin it to the Start screen if you want.
Google map
There is no official Google Maps app on Windows Phone but if you want an “official” experience, visit www.maps.google.com from Internet Explorer, make sure it’s a mobile site and give it access to your location.
Yes, the web app looks rudimentary and slower than Nokia Here Maps, and you can’t navigate turn-by-turn. But it’s good to know that if for some reason you really need to open Google Maps, it’s just a web page away.
gMaps . app
gMaps is an unofficial Google Maps app for Windows Phone 8.1. It uses the Google Maps API to give you the Google experience. It is much better to use than website. Searching and getting directions is really easy. Smooth zooming and scrolling. You can also save locations, get traffic and weather data.
What you don’t get back is turn-by-turn navigation. But if you tap on a place marker, you’ll get the option to open turn-by-turn navigation in other apps. Press Here Drive+ to open the Nokia in-app navigation. Nokia’s Here Maps is really good, much better than what they get. You should play around with them.
Gtalk (Hangouts)
Although Google has removed the Gtalk app and brand name and replaced it with Hangouts, the protocol still exists. So if you have a Google account, you’re ready to go. You can talk to your friends on Hangouts or Gtalk using one of these apps. And when I say Hangouts, I mean IM, not Hangouts video chat.
instant messaging +
IM+ is an all-in-one social messaging app. Sign in with your Google credentials and you will see all your Gtalk friends listed there. Free apps come with ads and no group chat functionality.
The app is well rated, but in my testing it has bugs and sometimes doesn’t show all notifications. If that happens to you too, try the app below.
Agent + ICQ
Agent + ICQ is a beautiful app that is a great example of the Windows Phone design language done right. Varieties and bright blue color combine well.
Function wise, Agent works well. You need to create an account using your phone number as authentication or Facebook/VK. Once signed in, go to your Profile and add your Google account. All your friends will now appear. Moreover, this application also allows you to chat in groups.
See also: Nimbuzz.
One Step Closer
I hope, with the help of the apps listed above, you will be one step closer to Google services on your Windows Phone.
Categories: How to
Source: thpttranhungdao.edu.vn/en/
