Google Allo starts rolling out with Google Assistant preview: Here is what you need to know

Google has started rolling out its much awaited chat messenger called Google Allo compatible with both Android and iOS. The fun messaging app also has a preview version of Google Assistant integrated into the Messenger and will take on the likes of WhatsApp, Facebook and Snapchat.

The company made the announcement on its official blog saying, "Today, we're releasing Google Allo, a new smart messaging app for Android and iOS that helps you say more and do more right in your chats. Google Allo can help you make plans, find information, and express yourself more easily in chat. And the more you use it, the more it improves over time."

The first look at the messaging app was unveiled at the Google I/O 2016 in May pitching it as a tough competitor for other apps like WhatsApp and Snapchat. The Allo, however, does not have video or audio call features that Google says is deliberate as it just recently launched the Google Duo for that.

The chat messenger will have features like group chatting, stickers and more. There is also an incognito mode where messages have end-to-end encryption and additional privacy features like discreet notifications and message expiration.

But why is it called a smart messaging app? That's because its smart reply will automatically answer for you when another person asks you a question. For instance the feature will respond to messages with just a tap like sending "yup" in response to a friend who asks "Are you on your way?"

Another interesting and innovative part about the app that will interest users is the inclusion of Google Assistant within the Messenger. This means that the bots will interact with you just like any other person while helping you out with your needs. And Google Search has been used as the base directory of the Google Assistant.

The Google Assistant has not been launched yet but the Allo gives you a preview version of it and shows what it can do. Check out some of the random questions asked to the assistant below and the answers it has for you.