Google Meet is finally cutting ties with the "free" unlimited group video calls. Now, the application will restrict the length of the previously free feature to one hour. Since many people are gradually reverting to the normal setup in work locations, the need for online meetings has been declining due to a large number of people who are already vaccinated.
The Zoom counterpart of Google has indeed been helpful with those who want to keep in touch with their remote friends. Before, the app would permit us to participate in group video calling at an unlimited time.
Now, the company decided to limit the usage of the free users who utilize the platform, especially during virtual arrangements.
Google Meet Undergoes Changes
Google Meet is now limiting the duration for the group video calls among free users.
According to The Verge, back in April, the public knew about Google Meet, especially for its convenience when creating rooms for virtual meetings and conferences.
However, many changes have happened to the video calling software.
Initially, the company said that it would be extending its free unlimited video call feature until September.
Google has not yet finalized the decision regarding the Meet app since it announced that it would be cutting the unlimited calling feature to March, which was extended for a few months until the latter June, following the G Suite subscriptions.
Google Meet's Group Calls Can Now Last For One Hour
What turned out to be true about the said months was the company's latest announcement.
From another story published by SlashGear, those who are relying on free Google Meet services will encounter a restriction to the app.
Before, they could still enjoy the endless group video calls with their friends and colleagues. The free users are now allowed to use the calls for a maximum of one hour a day.
Read Also: Google Meet: How to Change Layout with 49-person Grid View
Google Meet Subscription
From the plans and pricing of the software, users could avail a $7.99 monthly subscription for Google Meet if they want to enjoy more time talking with other people. Moreover, if they want to test some apps that share the same feature as the Meet app, they could use Zoom just in case.
Besides restrictions to the duration of the Google Meet group video calls, free users could still use other features, such as live captions and adjustable layouts.
Through a web browser, they could also participate in virtual meetings.
If you are aiming to buy the plan, you could utilize paid features, including Google Meet Breakout rooms and dial-in numbers.
Meanwhile, Zoom's features remain the same. The person-to-person calls in the platform continue to be free for the users with no time restrictions during the process.
The company imposed some changes during special occasions, such as New Year's Eve and Christmas Day. Zoom implemented a 40-minute limit to the meetings done during the said holidays.
Related Article: How to Use Google Meet, a Zoom Alternative
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Written by Joseph Henry
