Google has announced the launch of the “Companion Mode” feature in its online meeting and calling application, Google Meet, for both Android and iOS platforms, this innovative mode is designed to enhance the experience for participants in remote meeting systems, offering a second-screen option that augments interaction without the need for personal computers within multi-person meeting rooms.
Enhancing Meeting Interaction:
“Companion Mode” is specifically tailored for participants using audio/video conferencing systems in large meeting rooms, when activated, this mode automatically disables the microphone and video to prevent feedback during the meeting, Google emphasizes that this feature provides access to interactive controls and features within the meeting room, such as the ability to check into the room using a phone, making it easier for other attendees to see the user’s name next to the meeting room on the attendee list.
Interactive Features:
This mode enables users to share reactions without interrupting the speaker and to raise their hand to signal their desire to speak, additionally, “Companion Mode” supports live captions for real-time translations of the speaker’s words and allows for the exchange of chat messages with other meeting participants, users can also view and zoom in on presented content on their mobile devices, enhancing their ability to follow along with the meeting without relying on laptops.
Gradual Rollout:
Google plans a gradual rollout of “Companion Mode” to all Google Meet users over the coming weeks, this includes subscribers to “Workspace” and owners of free personal accounts, it’s noteworthy that this feature was previously available in the web version of Google Meet before being made accessible in the mobile app.
The introduction of “Companion Mode” in Google Meet for mobile devices marks a significant step in improving the functionality and user experience of Google’s online meeting platform, by facilitating better engagement and interaction among meeting participants, especially in large meeting rooms, Google continues to innovate and enhance its services to meet the evolving needs of its users.
