AT&T blocking cellular video calls made with new Google Android app

Google's Hangouts messaging app has been receiving generally positive reviews since it was launched, but when it comes to Android users on AT&T's network, it's hit a bit of a snag: The carrier isn't allowing users to make cellular video calls.

Google introduced the new Android and iOS app during the keynote at its annual developers conference. The app is designed to make it easier for users to communicate with their friends through Google by sending messages or making video calls, whether from their smartphone, tablet or computer. When the app is used on a smartphone or a cellular-connected tablet, Hangouts can also send messages using an individual's data plan. Making video calls over cellular networks is also allowed by most major carriers, but when Android AT&T users try the feature, they are getting a message telling them they must be on a Wi-Fi network to make a video call. When asked why this is happening, AT&T blamed Google and the smartphone makers. In a statement, AT&T said apps downloaded from the Internet can be used to make video calls over its cellular network. But when it comes to apps that are pre-installed, the software developers and the phone makers have to work with AT&T to enable the ability to make cellular video calling.