Google Rebrands Duo as Meet, the Old Meet App as Google Meet (Original)
In June, Google announced its plan to merge its two different video calling platforms, Meet and Duo.
A month later, the tech giant started incorporating more of Meet's features into Duo in order to prepare for the switch. Meet also received a new green icon as part of the merger.
Meanwhile, on Aug. 3, Google updated the Duo app for Android and iOS to add the redesigned Meet logo.
And this is where the problem lies. Users reported that they are being confused by these changes, especially on the icons of the video calling apps.
As a solution, Google decided to bring back Duo's old icon - at least for now.
Old Duo's Icon Is Back
According to a news story by Android Police, due to user confusion over the new changes, Duo's latest update has brought the iconic blue launcher icon. Both the old Meet icon and the new one coexist, but when either icon is clicked, the same app is launched.
Google claimed that the decision was intended to help users who keep looking for Duo but are unable to locate the app due to the name change.
It should be noted that Google will rebrand Duo as "Meet," while the old meet will be named "Google Meet (Original)."
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What Can You Expect on the Rebranding
This icon's addition appears to be a temporary measure as people adjust to the change since the major rebranding is still ongoing, as per Android Police.
It was previously reported, all Duo users should be able to witness the rebrand by next month. During this period, some of the basic features, such as contacts and effects, won't change. However, in order to access any meeting functionalities, you'll need to sign in using your Google account.
The original Meet app won't support ad hoc calling and will eventually stop working. Beginning in September, all users will receive the redesigned Google Meet app name and icon.
The new Google Meet app, formerly known as Google Duo, will be available at that time for download from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. This app will support both video calling and meetings.
As previously mentioned, over the past few weeks, Google has begun incorporating Meet functionality into Duo. The application, which was mostly designed for private video calling until now, will soon allow you to arrange meetings. Additional features that will be added to Duo include support for virtual backdrops, live content sharing, and in-meeting text chat.
Google reassures Duo users that popular features like the ability to add filters and effects to your calls won't be eliminated. You may still access your call history, contacts, and messages via the app. All of this is a result of Google's dedication to "carefully" merging the two platforms and ensuring that it works for as many users as possible.
Related Article: Google Rebrands Duo as Meet, the Old Meet App as Google Meet (Original)
