Google just launched its new messaging app, Allo. Here's how it works

Originally announced at its developers conference in May, Allo is billed as a "smart" messaging app. That's because of its built-in Google Assistant, an artificial intelligence-powered virtual assistant that can do everything from recommend nearby restaurants to answering questions you have.

Because this is a messaging app, the Google Assistant can be easily summoned to join the group conversations you're having friends, acting as an on-hand expert to provide advice and to resolve disputes.

Allo is designed to be a counterpart to Duo, Google's video chat app that launched in mid-August.

Business Insider got the chance to try Allo for ourselves and test out its features ahead of the launch. Here's what it's like to use it: