Google Meet has unveiled a new feature that will allow users to pause video streams for individual tiles. The move is aimed at improving the focus on speakers during video conferences, according to a report by TechCrunch.
The feature allows users to turn off individual feeds by tapping the three-dot menu next to the person's name in the sidebar on the web and by choosing the "Don't watch" option.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - OCTOBER 04: Members of the media examine Google's Pixel phone during an event to introduce Google hardware products on October 4, 2016, in San Francisco, California. Google unveils new products, including the Google Pixel Phone making a jump into the mobile device market.
Audio Only Mode
A new feature called "Audio only" mode has also been introduced on mobile devices for Google Meet. This mode enables users to turn off all video feeds except for the presenter's feed.
This feature is beneficial for users who are on the go as it helps save data. Google Meet will not notify other participants if you switch off their video feeds, and their meeting experience will not be affected.
It is already in the process of being rolled out by the company and is expected to be accessible to all users in the following weeks. In addition, administrators are unable to deactivate the feature for individual users, guaranteeing its availability for all.
In January, Google gave an update to the Meet video conferencing app, which aims to help presenters and participants gain better access to files and links via the platform.
The update allows users to obtain shared items in the app without having to distribute them before or after the meeting. The feature combines the different features from Google's Suite for apps like Docs, Slides, Sheets, Gmail, Google Drive, and other compatible experiences.
The shared file that is currently being presented by the host can be accessed via the dedicated button, a floating action menu when presenting, or in the Meet chat.
Emoji Reactions on Meet
Google Meet also rolled out the emoji reactions feature earlier this year. During a Google Meet call, users can express themselves by clicking or tapping on the smile icon located on the bottom pane, where they can post an emoji reaction that supports different skin tones.
Once an emoji is posted, a small badge will appear on the top-left corner of their tile on the web. If multiple people are reacting at the same time, a stream of reactions will appear on the left-hand side, similar to comments on a live video.
In addition to the emoji reaction feature, Google has also updated the Workspace for chats, making it easier for users to start individual or group conversations.
Previously, the Chat feature would prompt users to "Start group conversation" as they typed in names. However, this option has been completely removed by Google.
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