The primary utility of this feature lay in its frictionless user experience. Because Google Hangouts ran entirely within a web browser (or the Chrome browser), there was no need for the host to download heavy third-party executables, configure firewalls, or generate complex ID numbers and passwords. For the average consumer or small business user, this was revolutionary. A grandparent needing technical help could simply click a link sent via Gmail, join a Hangout, and grant control to a tech-savvy relative. Similarly, a freelance graphic designer could share their screen with a client and allow the client to point to specific design elements in real time. The integration with Google’s ecosystem—including Calendar, Gmail, and Google+ (at the time)—meant that remote assistance was never more than one click away.
A Deep Dive into Google Hangouts Remote Desktop: Features, Benefits, and Limitations