Google Meet adds a ‘New’ button, redesigns video call interface

Google has changed how its video calling platform, Meet, looks with a redesign of the call screen and a new ‘New’ button. The redesigned call screen streamlines the tools users mostly need during the call, while the ‘New’ button opens options to create a new meeting, schedule, or group, alongside revealing the contacts for instant calls. The new interface and button are part of the Google Meet version 266, now available for Android phones through the Google Play Store.

“New” is a floating button on the bottom right of Google Meet’s home screen. Tapping it takes users to a revamped “Start a call” screen through three options stacked on top: ‘Create a new meeting’, ‘Schedule in Google Calendar’, and ‘Create group’. Below these options are contacts available on Google Meet. However, a search bar with support for number dialling sits above those options within the options under the ‘New’ button. Google Meet now also offers suggestions of contacts that users are more likely to contact.

The video call screen has also undergone cosmetic changes to look more modern as Google finds new ways to keep its video calling service relevant in the post-pandemic era. The changes follow similar upgrades from rival platforms, such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams, while WhatsApp also recently introduced visual improvements to its video calling service alongside support for tools, such as new filters and virtual backgrounds to make calls more fun.

The new changes come days after Google Meet added artificial intelligence-based features, such as AI-generated notes after a meeting has ended. The app also received the ability to use the inner and outer cameras of the Pixel 9 Pro Fold at the same time during a video call. However, this feature is exclusive to Google’s latest foldable smartphone, available in India for Rs 1,72,999.