May 8th, 2012 by ElizaP

Google members can now broadcast their ‘hangouts’ live to the company’s online community. Called Hangouts On Air, the concept was initially released in 2001 for select members online. The feature allows several people to take part in a video roundtable chat, and broadcast that chat to the world. The feature has resulted in some incredibly interesting roundtable discussions by participants including Desmond Tutu, President Obama and musician Will.iam. But the feature isn’t only being used to discuss world events; Hangouts On Air has also been used for all manner of lessons, including language and music, support groups and to allow those who are bedridden to engage with people and stay abreast of current events. Google members can either keep their Hangouts private and by invitation-only, or choose to broadcast their discussions to a worldwide audience.