Google is distributing an update to Hangouts, introducing a feature called 'smart suggestions' to the service, Digital Spy reveals.

The chat platform will offer suggestions to users based on the contents and subject matter of their conversation.

For instance, if a contact asks them where they are, it will prompt them to share their location on Google Maps.

The update also includes 16 new sticker packs, video filters and time stamps that let users know when their contact was last online.

Google is delivering the update to Android users in the coming weeks, while iOS device owners will be in for a longer wait.

Meanwhile, Google has also rolled out an update to its Google+ service that allows users to enter their own custom gender.