Get ready for more inclusive hybrid meetings! Google is expanding its Companion Mode feature to iOS and Android, making it easier for in-person participants to engage with virtual tools. Previously available only on Nest Hub Max and web clients, Companion Mode bridges the gap for those attending meetings from a conference room.
Why Companion Mode?
Imagine a large hybrid meeting with dedicated room hardware managing audio and video. While great for the room as a whole, individual participants miss out on virtual features like reactions, chat, and hand raising. Companion Mode changes that!
What it does:
- Brings reactions, chat, hand raising, and more to your mobile device during in-person meetings.
- Provides captions and subtitles for easier understanding.
- Allows zooming in on shared content for better visibility.
How to use it:
- Look for the “Use Companion Mode” button before joining a meeting.
- Click it, and your audio and video will automatically mute (avoiding audio feedback with multiple mics).
- Enjoy the full virtual meeting experience from your phone!
Who can use it?
Both Google Workspace users and personal Google Account owners can access Companion Mode. However, rollout timing depends on your organization’s Google Workspace platform:
- Rapid-release: Starts February 12th, takes up to 15 days for full access.
- Scheduled release: Starts February 27th at the earliest, takes up to 15 more days for full access.
Ready to go mobile?
Make sure you have the latest version of Google Meet or Gmail on your iOS or Android device:
- iOS: Version 229 of Google Meet or version 2024.01.28 of Gmail or newer.
- Android: Version 225.0 of Google Meet or version 6.0.231231 of Google Meet or newer.
