Google Meet has been gaining tons of new features recently. Well, Google is rolling out another update for the Google Meet app that now lets users set custom backgrounds in the app.
Let’s face it, Zoom is still the go-to video conferencing app used by millions across the globe. This pandemic has really set the tone for the Zoom app, and other alternatives like Google Meet are just trying to come at par with the Zoom app.
However, good thing is that the new update for the Google Meet now allows for setting custom backgrounds, which is one of the nice features of the Zoom app. So, Google Meet now is somewhat at Zoom’s level.
Now users can use any custom background, negating the need to either cut down the background or blur it out. This also lets users maintain privacy.
Moreover, users will be able to select from the bunch of backgrounds that Google has provided. Or they can upload their own image and use it as their Google Meet call background.
Besides, you do not need to install any extension or any additional software to use this new Google Meet custom backgrounds within the app.
Recently, the Google Meet Android app received a major user interface revamp update. And this new update that brings Google Meet custom backgrounds feature is another nice addition.
Google Meet custom backgrounds feature is arriving on Chrome OS, Chrome on Windows & macOS
This new Google Meet custom backgrounds feature has started rolling out yesterday. Notably, the update is arriving on Chrome OS, Chrome on Windows, and macOS platforms.
As per the official blog, the support for mobile apps will be coming soon. The Google handpicked images contain images of office spaces, landscapes, and abstract backgrounds.
In order to use this feature, you will get to know that this custom backgrounds feature is live for you when there is a new option called “Change background” while you are on a Meet call.
The user has to tap on it and they can select a light blur effect, a strong blur, a Google pre-loaded background, or use your own uploaded background.
Admins do not have any control over this feature in the initial stage of the update. But Google has said in the official blog that Admin controls to select which groups or organization can use custom backgrounds feature would be coming to the Google Meet later this year.
Additionally, this feature will be OFF by default. Users have to manually trigger this option in order to use this new feature on Google Meet.
The new update is rolling out on the Rapid Release domains, starting October 30, 2020. While the Scheduled Release domains will pick up this update starting on November 6, 2020.
Education users starting a Google Meet room will not be able to use this feature, while it is available to all users. For more info, you can head here.