Google is currently testing Helpouts — touted as “a new way to connect people who need help with people who can give help, over live video, anytime, anywhere”. The new service will be tied into Google+ and it’s basically Google Hangouts: not with friends, but with teachers.
The service isn’t live yet, as Google is still in the midst of gathering people with expertise across a number of topics. There are currently eight categories listed under the Helpouts support page, which include: Home & Garden, Computers & Electronics, Health & Counseling, Nutrition & Fitness, Fashion & Beauty, Art & Music, Cooking and Education.
Google isn’t taking the “expert” part lightly — anyone who wants to create a Helpout has to list down evidence of qualifications such as certificates, training and experience. If you want to provide any medical service, Google will also get a third party to check your certificate or licensure.
Helpouts can either be charged (with payment handled via Google Wallet), or for free. Google will take a platform fee of 20 percent for any paid Helpouts, which includes credit card transaction and Wallet fees.
➤ Via Android Police
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