Google Meet just got a killer feature Zoom can’t beat

Google Meet merely got a killer characteristic Zoom can't beat

(Paradigm credit: Google)

Google but introduced Google Run into integration into the Android Gmail app, assuasive you to jump from your inbox to your adjacent video call rapidly and easily -- earlier you can fifty-fifty think nigh a Zoom meeting.

This characteristic has been in development for some time, merely Google is now in the process of launching it, every bit announced past its G Suite blog (via Engadget). The rollout will be taking place over the adjacent 2 weeks, so don't be concerned if the update has yet to appear on your own Android phone. For instance, it hasn't appeared on my OnePlus viii Pro yet, despite having the updated version of the Gmail app.

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We first heard that this Gmail/Google Meet app fusion was coming concluding calendar month. iOS users already saw this functionality go live for them terminal week, and users of the web app take probable noticed the new tab since Gmail's update that took identify in May.

However with the introduction of the feature to Android, now basically all smartphone users around the globe can at present benefit from this integration, making it much more convenient for users without access to a desktop or laptop.

In case yous tin't see whatsoever changes still, the update adds a new tab at the bottom of the Gmail app which allows y'all to join or create a meeting. It too displays any meetings you have scheduled for that solar day in instance you lot need a summary of what's coming upwards.

Outside of the app, when y'all click on a Google Meet link, your phone will now open up Gmail instead of the Meet app.

If yous don't desire the tab there taking up valuable screen space, and then a quick trip into the settings will permit you lot to hide the tab.

This will exist a big benefit to users of G Suite, Google's business-focussed service that allows unlimited length Google Meet calls. Personal account users can besides employ Meet, since Google made the service available for not-enterprise users several months ago to help people manage with isolation during coronavirus lockdowns. However, from September 30th, personal account users will only exist able to make Meet video calls for a maximum of ane hour.

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Richard is a Tom'due south Guide staff writer based in London, covering news, reviews and how-tos for phones, gaming, sound and whatsoever else people need advice on. Following on from his MA in Magazine Journalism at the University of Sheffield, he'south also written for WIRED U.Grand., The Register and Creative Bloq. When not at work, he's likely thinking most how to brew the perfect cup of specialty java.