14 DAY TRIAL // Google has just launched a new application called Meet by Google Hangouts, aimed at delivering HD video meetings. The web and mobile application is Google’s latest addition to the G Suite, but the app’s listing is not live yet.
Google released a web client at meet.google.com, but it doesn’t really do anything yet, according to TechCrunch. The web page resembles the landing page for Hangouts, but instead Meet requires users to enter a code and allow access to the device’s onboard camera and microphone.
The site also shows users scheduled meetings, but it doesn’t appear to have the option to place a call or start a text chat. The application was listed on the App Store and it suggests that Meet is a business-friendly alternative to Hangouts, Google’s messaging, voice and video chat app.
Group video calls and video chat
Meet by Google Hangouts will offer group video calls, as well as video chat, but in an expanded way. Currently, Hangouts is limited to just 10 people, while Meet appears to support high-definition video meetings with up to 30 participants.
This would mean that the application could very well be used by business consumers for conducting meetings through the online platform and share information among colleagues.
Meet includes various features aimed at making it easy to join such video meetings, including dial-in numbers, links for joining meetings and integration with Gmail and Calendar for G Suite users, so they can check their schedule for upcoming meetings.
The app’s main screen shows a list of scheduled meetings, the time, location, subject, and participants. Users can join video calls by clicking on one button, and mute or switch off video during the call. The app even shows a list of participants, their names and emails.
Google has yet to officially announce Meet and make the application available to Android users as well.
