Google unveils Applause, a Hangouts on Air tool that lets viewers cheer and jeer in real-time

Google today unveiled Applause, a new Hangouts on Air feature that allows viewers to give a ‘thumbs up’ or ‘thumbs down’ during broadcasts.

In a screenshot (below), you can see a chart in the lower quadrant of the video ‘Hangout’ simulating audience feedback in real-time. The orbs shift position vertically and are colored green, blue, pink and red to denote how people’s opinions are changing. As the viewer, you can hammer either a green or red thumbs up/down icon at the bottom of the screen to participate.

Applause follows two other features, Live Q&A and Showcase, that have evolved the Hangouts on Air experience for brands and businesses. The former gives hosts the chance to solicit, select and answer questions in real-time, while the latter allows artists and brands to promote tickets and other goods.

➤ Hangouts on Air (via Google+)

Thumbnail image credit: GEORGES GOBET/AFP/Getty Images