Google Meet is a popular choice for video conferencing, competing with platforms like Zoom and Skype. It's the go-to option for many Workspace users, especially those who are required by organizational policies to use Meet exclusively.
One common concern during video calls is the fear of missing important visual cues when switching to other browser tabs. To address this, Google has introduced a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for Google Meet in Chrome on desktop, inspired by its Android app's functionality.
Typically, Google Meet dynamically adjusts participant video feeds, especially when someone is presenting. However, users often have to rely on OS-level split-screen features to keep track of the meeting while browsing links shared in the chat or multitasking. For some users, this can be quite cumbersome.
Google's developers have now provided a solution by leveraging Chrome’s capabilities. When a user switches to another Chrome tab, Google Meet automatically transitions into PiP mode without any manual intervention.
This PiP feature, while not entirely new, previously required users to activate it manually through the meeting overflow menu each time.
With the new automatic PiP switching, Chrome users can enjoy seamless multitasking. The PiP window is movable and resizable, and it retains crucial meeting controls similar to a full-sized browser tab. Options in the upper right corner of the PiP window allow users to close it without exiting the meeting or return to the full Meet tab.
However, it's important to note that this feature is exclusive to Chrome; switching to a different full-screen program will hide the PiP window.
This new feature is gradually being rolled out to all Google account holders, and workspace administrators will not have the ability to enable or disable it. For those who prefer to turn off this functionality, a toggle labeled "Automatic picture-in-picture" can be found in Chrome's site settings, accessible via the slider icon next to the URL in the address bar.
The feature is being rolled out now on Rapid Release domains, with a scheduled release for everyone else starting from September 10th.
This update enhances the overall user experience, particularly for those who frequently multitask during meetings. By integrating PiP mode directly into Chrome, Google Meet ensures that users remain engaged and informed, even while managing other tasks.
As the feature becomes widely available, it promises to streamline the way users interact with video conferencing, making it easier to balance participation in meetings with other responsibilities.