Google Meet, the video-communication service developed by Google, has recently introduced several new features aimed at enhancing user experience. One of the significant updates is the 'car mode' feature. This feature, designed to simplify the user experience for those who conduct meetings while driving, disables native image transmission, allowing users to send and receive sound only, thereby reducing distractions. The interface also features larger, easy-to-press buttons, making it more user-friendly for drivers. This update is primarily aimed at the business environment, but can be beneficial for any user who needs to attend meetings while on the move.
In addition to the 'car mode', Google Meet has also introduced a feature that allows enterprise users to make direct calls without the need to generate a meeting link. This feature, previously available only to personal users, allows for cloud-encrypted 1:1 video calls within an organization. The calls include in-meeting chat, virtual backgrounds, visual effects, live closed captions, and more, depending on the Workspace edition. However, certain features like group calls, messages, moments, family mode, and knock knock are not available in this mode.
Another notable update is the 'On-the-Go' mode, designed to optimize the meeting experience for mobile users. This mode activates when the app detects motion, features large, easy-to-press buttons for various controls, and turns off video to save bandwidth. Users can view presentations in fullscreen and access breakout rooms in this mode. These updates are currently rolling out to all Google Workspace customers.