Pidgin is a renowned IM client for Linux and probably the most used too. The application comes as a default install in many Linux-based distributions and is extremely handy in managing multiple services all at the same time without faulting.
Just recently we learned that there’s a libpurple plugin called Purple Hangouts that features support for Google’s secure hangout protocol in order for you to be able to use the Hangout’s service with Pidgin.
While this is basically possible with the XMPP interface in the Pidgin, it is quite limited in functionality, this is where Purple Hangouts comes it as it provides more functions than the standard XMPP.
They features of libpurple include but not limited to self-messages, SMS via Google voice, synchronized history across all your devices and most importantly, an intuitive interface.
To get Google hangouts set up on your device, you’ll have to first install pidgin; if you’re on Ubuntu or any of its derivatives, you’ll find it in the standard repository and a simple “sudo apt install pidgin” will get it on your PC in no time.
Once you have it installed, you may then proceed to install Purple Hangouts which is the plugin essentially for making your Google account work with Pidgin.
Enter the following consecutively and then launch Pidgin; you’ll find Hangouts as an option in the protocol drop down menu.
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:nilarimogard/webupd8
sudo apt update
sudo apt install purple-hangouts pidgin-hangouts
On the other hand, if you’re on Arch, you’ll find Purple Hangouts in the AUR and also for Feddy users, you’ll find it in the copr repo.
If you’re however looking to use it in platforms other than those I mentioned already, then you may head over to the source where you’ll find instructions for compiling.
Select Hangouts and input your email address, at this point, you’ll be auto-directed to a webpage where you’ll have your authentication code waiting.
Copy the code and paste it into the authentication box after which you’ll now press ok to start using Hangouts via Pidgin.
