Are you looking for a way to make your mobile meetings more productive and less stressful? If so, you might want to check out Google Meet new On-the-Go Mode feature. This feature is designed to help you join meetings while on the move, whether you’re walking, driving, or using public transportation.
It automatically detects if you’re in motion and switches to a simplified user interface, with video off by default and only key information displayed. You can also view presented content and join breakout rooms while in this mode. In this article, we’ll explain what’s changing, who’s impacted, and how to use On-the-Go Mode for your online meetings.
Table of Contents
What’s Changing in Google Meet?
Google Meet is rolling out a new On-the-Go Mode Feature. with On-the-Go mode, when you join a meeting on your mobile device, the system will automatically detect if you’re in motion. If you are, it will prompt you to switch to On-the-Go mode. Here’s what’s different:
- Automatic Detection: When you join a meeting on your mobile device, Meet will automatically detect if you’re in motion. If you are, it will suggest using On-the-Go Mode. This means you won’t have to fumble with settings while on the move.
- Simplified User Interface: On-the-Go Mode comes with a simplified user interface. You’ll have easy access to the most critical meeting features, such as muting and unmuting, raising your hand, and selecting your audio device. This simplification helps you stay focused on the meeting.
- Key Information Display: On-the-Go Mode displays only the most crucial information, like the active speaker and the number of participants in the call. This minimizes distractions and keeps your meeting efficient.
- Video Off by Default: In On-the-Go Mode, your video will be automatically turned off when you join a meeting. This is to save bandwidth and reduce distractions, making it an audio-only experience.
- Option to View Content: While in On-the-Go Mode, you still have the option to view presented content, ensuring you don’t miss out on any important information.
Who’s Impacted?
The primary group impacted by these changes is end users. If you frequently use Google Meet on your mobile device, especially in situations where you’re on the move, you’ll notice these improvements.
How to use ‘On-the-go’ Feature
For administrators, there are no specific controls for this feature. However, for end users, On-the-Go Mode will be enabled by default, but you have the flexibility to turn it on or off according to your preference.
One of the standout features of On-the-Go Mode is its automatic motion detection. If you’re in motion and join a meeting, Google Meet will detect this and suggest that you switch to On-the-Go Mode. All you need to do is tap “Go” on the popup, and you’re ready to have a focused mobile meeting.
While automatic motion detection is convenient, you can also manually enter On-the-Go Mode during a meeting. If you wish to switch to this mode, simply tap “More controls” at the bottom of the screen and then select “On-the-Go.” If you decide to exit On-the-Go Mode, your camera will default to “off.” To turn it back on, simply tap the camera icon.
How to Turn Off On-the-Go Mode
If you prefer not to have On-the-Go Mode suggested automatically, you can easily turn off this feature. Here’s how to do it:
- For regular users, access the mobile app, go to Menu, then Settings, and finally Meeting settings. From there, you can turn off the option to “automatically use On-the-Go” Mode suggestions.
- For Business & EDU users, the process is similar. In the mobile app, go to Menu, then Settings, and then General. From there, you can also turn off the option to “automatically use On-the-Go” Mode.
On the other hand, if you want to ensure that On-the-Go Mode is suggested whenever you join a meeting in motion, you can turn this feature on using the same steps as turning it off. Simply follow the instructions provided above and select the option to automatically use On-the-Go Mode.
Features in On-the-Go Mode
It’s important to note that On-the-Go Mode is exclusively available for mobile devices. Here’s what you can expect when using this feature:
- Camera Off: When you enter On-the-Go Mode, your camera will be turned off by default. This ensures that your video feed doesn’t consume unnecessary bandwidth and helps maintain your privacy.
- Reduced Data Usage: On-the-Go Mode is designed to use less data, making it ideal for situations where you have limited bandwidth. This is not only convenient but also cost-effective for users on mobile data plans.
- Large Buttons: The user interface in On-the-Go Mode features large, easy-to-press call control buttons. This minimizes the chances of accidentally tapping the wrong button, allowing you to stay focused on the meeting without interruptions.
- Optional Content Viewing: While On-the-Go Mode prioritizes an audio-only experience, you still have the option to view any content that’s being presented during the meeting. This ensures you can stay fully engaged in the conversation.
- Breakout Rooms: You can even join breakout rooms while in On-the-Go Mode and continue to participate in those discussions seamlessly. This feature ensures that your mobility doesn’t limit your involvement in various aspects of the meeting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can use Google Meet ‘On-the-Go’?
Google Meet ‘On-the-Go’ is available to all Google Workspace customers and users with personal Google accounts.
What Features are Available in Google Meet ‘On-the-Go’?
Google Meet ‘On-the-Go’ still has the essential features from the regular Google Meet UI, such as mute/unmute, hand raise, and audio device selection. You can also view presented content and join breakout rooms.
Conclusion
Google Meet’s On-the-Go Mode is a new feature that makes mobile meetings easier and more focused. It automatically detects if you’re in motion and suggests switching to a simplified user interface, with video off by default and only key information displayed. You can also view presented content and join breakout rooms while in this mode.
On-the-Go Mode is designed to save bandwidth, reduce distractions, and enhance your mobile meeting experience. You can turn this feature on or off according to your preference. If you often join meetings while on the move, give On-the-Go Mode a try and see how it improves your virtual collaboration.
