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We’d already been let in on Google’s next big endeavor with Hangouts before. Dubbed Helpouts, it’s a service that will allow folks to get 1-on-1 expert help from other people for a nominal fee. Whether you need help with your new phone or PC, or want to be shown a recipe to get ready for Thanksgiving, you’d be able to pay someone (either per minute or per session) to show you how to do nearly anything you need.
Google has finally made the formal announcement via their blog. “With Helpouts, you can choose who you get help from based on their qualifications, their availability, their price, their ratings and reviews,” the post reads. Whether it’s an individual offering up their own free time or a corporation looking to add another dimension of customer support, you’ll be able to connect with people in a secure, convenient way, and you’ll be able to do it from either PC or mobile.
You’ll be able to share screens with each other, collaborate on documents and more — Google provides all the tools needed to make for a successful sessions. More than that, if the person needing help feels their needs weren’t met, Google will honor a money-back guarantee. They will take a look at each request on a case-by-case basis and determine what to do based on the archive of the session.
Of course, a service like this could be abused by the unpleasant souls of the world, but Google thankfully isn’t overlooking the importance of abuse and harassment. The company makes it easy to report any wrongdoing, and promises to review take action on every single complaint they receive:
We will enforce Helpouts policies to ensure a safe environment where people can learn from each other and share information. When we disapprove a Helpouts listing, receive reports of abuse, or take action based on violations of Helpouts policies, accounts will be flagged. Some violations will result in immediate account suspension or termination
The service will only launch with a few categories to start, but Google is looking to add a lot more over time. Anyone can sign up to be a helper, and anyone can find help as long as they can pay for it with funds from a Google Wallet account. If you’re on either side of that fence and want to see what the fuss is about, be sure to head to Google Helpouts and sign up for yourself.
[via Google]
This is pretty awesome if the quality of service offered is legit. Imagine being able to help out at home and make a days pay as you would at work with out ever leaving your house. I wonder what would happen if you got suckered into some crappy help outs.
Pretty sure I read a while ago that if you are not satisfied with the Helpout you can mention it to Google. They will probably keep track of the helpers, if they get too many negative comments
is this available internationally?
I can tell you that I cannot be a helper in the Netherlands. I got the invite while they were in beta, but to this day they won’t let me in because it is not available in the Netherlands (as a helper)
Seems there is already a Google Helpouts App in the Playstore :
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.helpouts
The picture is a kill joy… it didn’t preview the new n10
http://www.ebay.com/itm/281201274897?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649
-_-
“Anyone can sign up to be a helper”
No, cos helpers are probably US only, or otherwise restricted. Can;t be a helper from the Netherlands at least.
It seem to work fine here in Mexico. Don’t see a problem with that.
So once again the Dutch get shafted….Well at least this time it is for something I don’t care for much. Just wish devices section in play store, Google fiber and Google voice were available here
We actually don’y have google voice here in Mexico. I think Fiber is available, but don’t see the point since I have Netflix and cable.
Engadget had an article where an automotive guide was coupled with Google Glass to help walk a woman through changing her washer fluid (I think) with a diagram overlay of the engine. Couple this with Glass and it would be even more helpful.
I remember when this was first announced. people were joking if this could be used for “alternative” reasons…like help “getting off”. lol. that kindle mayday is gonna have the same problem. *mayday* “hi I’m here to hel-thats a penis”
great concept, I’m on it myself, but I doubt it’s going to be a success as google thinks its going to be with the current setup. There are so many people on it. Too hard to compete.
Wonder if an account can be created to only help out friends and family rather than a full public account.
Get expert help from Google right from Google Helpouts!! Read a full review on it right here!!! http://goo.gl/JnUsYa