Companion Mode Debuts on Google Meet for Mobile Devices
In a bid to enhance user experience and adaptability, Google has dedicated significant efforts to refining its Meet app over the past few weeks. Building on a series of updates rolled out earlier this year, the tech titan continues to evolve its video conferencing platform, promising even more enhancements in the pipeline.
The most recent update to Google Meet introduces the much-awaited companion mode feature to mobile devices. Previously confined to laptops and desktops, companion mode can now be accessed directly from Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, starting this week.
Companion mode serves as a valuable tool, particularly in meeting environments where larger devices are impractical. For those unfamiliar with its capabilities, here's a glimpse of what companion mode offers:
- Seamless check-in to meeting rooms for easy identification.
- Non-disruptive emoji reactions to convey sentiments during discussions.
- Hand-raising functionality to signal the desire to contribute.
- Captions support real-time subtitles during discussions.
Chat integration for swift communication with fellow participants.
- Content viewing and zooming options for enhanced engagement with presentations.
While Google has initiated the rollout of this feature, it may take up to two weeks for all users to gain access. Notably, companion mode is accessible to all Google Workspace and Individual customers, as well as individuals with personal Google accounts.
It's essential to ensure that your Google Meet and Gmail applications meet the necessary version requirements for optimal performance. For Android users, Google Meet version 229 and Gmail version 2024.01.28 or later are required, while iPhone users need Google Meet version 225.0 and Gmail version 6.0.231231 or newer.