Anybody with a Google account can now video call with up to 100 people simultaneously and without any time limits using Google Meet. Few days ago, Google is making their premium video conferencing software free for everyone in the light of COVID-19.
Google had first announced on April 29 that in the coming weeks it will roll out an update making Google Meet, its “premium” video calling service free for all. Separately “advanced” Google Meet features like support for up to 250 participants, live streaming, and recording, remain free for all G-Suite users till September 30.
How to use Google Meet for free video calling?
You just need to have a Google account to sign-in and start a virtual meeting with up to 100 participants. The conferences will not have a time limit, but Google has already confirmed that a 60-minute meeting restriction will be introduced after September 30.
All you have to do is visit https://meet.google.com and you have option to Join Meeting or Present. If you have already been invited to meeting, you will get your invitations in Join Meeting button and if you wish to create new meeting, can do so in Google Meet Free edition.
Features included in free version
All free Google Meet users will be able to access popular features like screen sharing, real-time captions, and the new tile-based interface.
Google sign-in requirement is also for security
Both hosts and participants are required to sign-in with their respective Google accounts before starting a video Call.
Google says it kept this requirement to give hosts more control over calls and prevent unauthorized members from gate-crashing the meeting.
How to start Google Meet calls/meetings?
- To start a Google Meet call, go to meet.google.com
- Sign in with your Google Account
- Click on ‘Start a meeting‘ option to initiate the video Calling.
- Once you click “Start a Meeting” button, meeting room will be created with meeting ID. You will be displayed two options to join meeting or present now. Click on Join Meeting and choose add people to invite to your call.
- Send the URL to the Participants to Join the call.
- Using the Link Participants will be able to Join the Video Call. You can share your computer screen by clicking on Present now icon.
How to Join Google Meet meeting?
- To start a Google Meet call, go to meet.google.com
- Sign in with your Google Account
- Enter the Meeting code in the “Enter meeting code” box & click Join.
- If you have received email invitation, you can join by clicking Email link also. If you are using Mobile device for meeting, you will be redirected to Google Meet app and if not installed, respective store.
