- Google makes it easier to join Meet calls on Companion mode
- Laptops listen out for hardware via ultrasound signals
- It only works with Chrome and supported hardware
One of the biggest pain points for Google Meet users joining video conferencing calls could soon be solved after the company by adding a new Companion Mode feature to automatically allow users to join a call.
In a blog post, the company unveiled its new automatic room check-in feature, which uses ultrasound proximity detection to streamline the process of joining meetings in Companion mode.
Users’ laptops will leverage the built-in microphone to detect an ultrasound signal from Google Meet hardware, making it even easier to join in with multi-person calls – and hopefully putting an end to annoying or jarring echoes for good.
Google Meet gets even easier in Companion mode
“To simplify joining meetings from a conference room and prevent disruptive audio feedback, Google Meet now intelligently guides you to the best joining option,” Google noted.
When a laptop detects nearby Google Meet hardware, it will switch from highlighting ‘Join now’ to ‘Use Companion mode’, which allows them to join into a call without duplicating audio or video in a shared room.
Already a useful feature, Companion mode disables the mic and camera by default to prevent audio feedback or echo, allowing users to view presentations, use the in-meeting chat, participate in polls, share their screen and use captions.
“This wayfinding feature helps ensure a seamless, echo-free start to your meeting,” Google added.
Proximity-based Room Check-in replaces the manual check-in prompt shown after clicking ‘Use Companion mode’.
The tool will be available to all Google Workspace customers with Google Meet hardware, but could take up to 15 days from August 4 to show up for all users. For now, the feature is only supported on Google Meet web via Chrome, together with certified Google Meet peripherals.
