Choose the connection that fits your setup
The browser experiment works in a dedicated Google Chat tab while your computer and browser remain running. Start with a short session and check the visible result before using a full working-day schedule.
Cloud access is not open yet. Its account setup and live validation must be completed before OnlineHours can offer Google Chat scheduling without a running laptop.
A focused Google permission
Google now provides an availability API for the authenticated user. Its documented setup requires a Business or Enterprise Workspace account with Chat access; updates use the chat.users.availability scope.
The planned OnlineHours connection requests availability access, not permission to read your messages. Review the Google consent screen and your organization’s app access requirements when connection becomes available.
Short updates, clear stopping behaviour
The cloud design requests Active for five minutes and refreshes that request every three minutes during your chosen hours. Pressing Stop ends those refreshes and lets the last request expire naturally.
Your dot may stay active after that if you are still using Google Chat yourself. OnlineHours stopping and your account immediately becoming Away are not the same event.
Common questions
Does the upcoming API connection support a free Gmail account?
The documented Google availability setup requires a Business or Enterprise Workspace account. OnlineHours does not promise this cloud route for consumer Gmail accounts.
Does Stop immediately mark me Away?
The planned Google connection stops refreshing a short Active request. Its most recent request can last up to five minutes, and your own Chat activity can keep you active beyond that.
Can I use cloud scheduling now?
Not yet. The current downloadable option is the free experimental browser extension; Google cloud access remains pending setup and live validation.