Well, that’s strange. I was just thinking about Google Helpouts last week for the first time in I don’t know how long, and today, news is out that Google is killing the product.

Google announced Helpouts in 2013. It was a way for people to instruct others on things they’re experts on via realtime video, and potentially make some money doing so. Obviously it didn’t do very well.

The reason the product entered my mind last week was because Google launched its new .HOW TLD, which made me think about how Google might be able to offer .HOW domains with Helpouts in some way or another.

Google is shutting Helpouts down on April 20. Users can download their Helpouts history using Google Takeout.

“Since launching in 2013, Helpouts has been a home for people to connect with experts on topics they want to learn about or seek advice and solutions to everyday challenges, Google says. “The Helpouts community includes some engaged and loyal contributors, but unfortunately, it hasn’t grown at the pace we had expected. Sadly, we’ve made the tough decision to shut down the product.”

“We want to thank our community for all their support — both the providers who shared their expertise with the world, and the people who needed some extra help or advice along the way,” it adds. “You’ve had a lot to contribute — and we’ve loved learning alongside you.”

You can still add a new listing or edit an existing listing before the shutdown, but I’m not sure why you’d bother. You can still give Helpouts up until April 19. You’ll still be paid for Helpouts you gave before the shutdown. Payments are initiated on the 15th of each month for paid hangouts from the previous month. May 15 will be the last day of payments.

Google has an FAQ about the shut-down available here.

Via TechCrunch