Google Duo launched in 2016 as a cross-platform rival to Apple's FaceTime, available on both Android and iOS devices while FaceTime remains Apple-exclusive.
Like WhatsApp, Duo uses your phone number for seamless calls to contacts. Its clean interface hides powerful features we've tested extensively.
To elevate your Duo experience, try these 13 practical tips.
The Duo app displays recent contacts at the bottom, but lacks call time and duration details.
Access full logs via your phone's dialer app on Android or iOS, where Google integrates Duo's history.
Note: On Android, if logs don't appear, go to Settings > Apps > Duo > Permissions and enable Phone.
Dial a contact from your phone app, tap their photo, then select Duo for video or voice calls—no need to open Duo first.
Long-press a name in Duo's recent list and tap Delete recent contact to clear it.
Export your logs via settings. On Android: Tap the three-dot menu > Help & Feedback > three-dot menu > Export call history. Share or save as needed.
On iOS: Three-dot menu > Settings > About, Terms & Privacy > Export call history.
Knock Knock lets callers preview your live video before answering. Disable it: Home screen three-dot menu > Settings > Knock Knock (toggle off).
Note: Disabling blocks previews for incoming calls too.
On Android 8.0+, press Home during a call to shrink it into a PIP window, letting you multitask.
Note: Requires Android 8.0 Oreo or later; older devices drop to audio-only.
Swipe down from Duo's home, tap record, choose recipient, and send clips up to 30 seconds—perfect for missed calls.
Tap the mic icon during any call to silence background noise without hanging up.
Switch from front to rear camera mid-call by tapping the camera icon.
Tap your preview window to expand it fullscreen; tap the small square to shrink back.
Drag your preview bubble to any screen corner during calls.
Receiving calls unregistered? Disable via Phone Settings > Google > App Preview Messages > Turn off Google Duo.
Long-press a contact > Block number. This only affects Duo; other apps remain unaffected.
Duo rivals WhatsApp, Skype, and FaceTime with pre-install on Android, iOS support, and unregistered calling perks. Share your favorite tip in the comments!
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