14 DAY TRIAL // Google has released another important update for Gmail on both iPhone and Android, allowing users to start and join meetings and make audio calls.
Obviously, the feature is powered by Google Chat in Gmail, and the Mountain View-based search giant explains it’s only available for a 1:1 chat for the time being.
Using this new feature is as easy as possible. Simply open the contact you want to call and then tap the icons in the top right corner to start an audio call or initiate a meeting. On the other hand, if you want to join a call, you can just open the 1:1 chat and select the phone or video icons.
Further improvements in the works
Google says the feature is already available for Google Chat in Gmail when Meet video calling is enabled.
“As some teams begin to return to office, while others remain distributed, we hope this makes it easier to connect with your colleagues in the hybrid work world. This feature will allow you to seamlessly switch between chat to a video or audio call when needed, helping you collaborate and move your work forward,” the company explains.
The company says it’s also working on additional improvements, including options to join a call in the Google Chat mobile app.
“While you can select “Join a call” from the Google Chat app, you will be redirected to the Gmail app, where the call will take place. If you do not have the Gmail app on your device, you’ll be prompted to download it via Google Play store or the App Store. We’ll provide an update on the Google Workspace Updates Blog when this feature becomes available for the Google Chat mobile app,” Google says.
The feature will be available by default on both iPhone and Android.