13 Aug How to Completely Disable Google Hangouts on PC, Mac, Chrome, Android, and iOS

Ever feel like Google Hangouts is always lurking in the background, popping up when you least want it? You’re not alone. Many users want to completely disable Hangouts, and we’re here to help you do just that — with a fun, simple guide!

Hangouts can sneak into your workflow on PCs, Macs, Chrome, Android, and iOS. But worry not. We’ll disable this chatty little app one platform at a time.

1. Disable Google Hangouts on PC

Let’s start with your trusty desktop or laptop.

• Step 1: Open your web browser and go to https://mail.google.com.
• Step 2: Look for the Hangouts pane on the left side.
• Step 3: Click on your name or profile picture in the Hangouts section.
• Step 4: Choose Sign out of Hangouts.
• Step 5: Click the Settings gear in Gmail (top right), then go to Chat and Meet.
• Step 6: Under “Chat,” choose Chat off. Save changes.

And boom — it’s gone! At least on your Gmail page.

2. Disable Google Hangouts on Mac

On a Mac, Hangouts usually operates through your browser or Chrome extension.

• Step 1: Open Chrome.
• Step 2: Click on the three dots (top right), then go to More tools > Extensions.
• Step 3: Find Google Hangouts in the list. Click Remove.

Don’t worry, Removing the extension won’t delete your Google account. Just the pesky pop-ups.

3. Disable Google Hangouts in Chrome

If Chrome is your main browser, Hangouts might be haunting it too.

• Step 1: Open Chrome.
• Step 2: Type chrome://extensions in the address bar and hit Enter.
• Step 3: Look for Google Hangouts.
• Step 4: Click Remove or toggle it off.

Bonus tip: You can also delete the Hangouts app from your app drawer if it’s been installed as a standalone Chrome App.

4. Disable Google Hangouts on Android

Let’s talk phones! Hangouts is often pre-installed on Android phones. Here’s how to tame it.

• Step 1: Go to Settings > Apps.
• Step 2: Scroll down and find Hangouts.
• Step 3: Tap it, then hit Disable.

If you see a “Force Stop” option, use that too. It stops it from running in the background.

Note: You can uninstall any updates first if the Disable option is greyed out.

5. Disable Google Hangouts on iOS

Got an iPhone or iPad? Hangouts shows up there too, but it’s easier to deal with.

• Step 1: Find the Hangouts app on your home screen.
• Step 2: Press and hold the icon until it wiggles.
• Step 3: Tap the X or Remove App.

That’s it. You’re free!

Bonus Tip: Disable Notifications

If you’re not ready to uninstall just yet, try muting it!

• PC/Mac: Disable Chrome notifications via browser settings.
• Android: Go to App Settings > Notifications > Turn off.
• iOS: Settings > Notifications > Hangouts > Turn off Allow Notifications.

Wrap Up

There you go. Now you know how to shut down Google Hangouts on every device you own.

Whether it’s via browser, app, or extension — you’ve got the power. Peace, quiet, and no more popup chats. Happy browsing!