Google will soon make its communication services simpler. The tech giant revealed its plan to combine its two different video calling applications, Meet and Duo, into a single platform in June.
On Wednesday, the next stage of this merger begins.
Update on the Merger of Two Apps
It was always going to be difficult to combine multiple apps. However, Google is basically making the Duo app into the new and improved Google Meet app by adding all of Meet's features to it.
In order to prepare for the transition, Google began integrating more of Meet's features into Duo in July. Meet also received an update and a new green icon, according to TechCrunch.
Beginning on Wednesday, Google will roll out an update to the Duo app for Android and iOS that includes the new Meet logo and an informative new notification.
However, for the time being, the old Meet app will remain available under the name "Google Meet (original)."
Engadget noted that by September, all Duo users should be able to witness the rebrand. The familiar parts (such effects and contacts) will not change, but you will need to log in with your Google account to use any meeting features. Ad hoc calling won't be available on the original Meet app, and it will eventually cease to function.
All users will get the updated Google Meet app name and icon starting in September. At that time, you can download the new Google Meet app (formerly known as Google Duo), which will include both video calling and meeting functions, from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Beginning on Wednesday, TechCrunch said you'll see the new branding if you use Duo on the web, but other than that, not much will change. It will take some time before the Duo website reroutes to Meet.
The goal of the merger, according to a Google spokesperson, is to provide an unified experience that can adapt to the "evolving needs" of video calling, including meetings. It also serves as a further acknowledgment that Google's array of communication apps had become overcomplicated, according to the news story of Engadget.
What Can We Expect When the Duo and Meet Merger Completes
Google has been integrating Meet features into Duo over the past few weeks. After it is complete, you will be able to organize meetings using the app, which up until now has mostly been made for personal video calling, according to a separate Engadget report. Meanwhile, support for virtual backdrops, live content sharing, and in-meeting text chat are additional capabilities that will be added to Duo.
At the same time, Google assures users of Duo that beloved features like the ability to add filters and effects to your calls won't be going away. Additionally, the app will still contain your call logs, contacts, and messages. All of this is a part of Google's commitment to "carefully" integrating the two platforms and making sure it supports the most number of people.
Related Article: You Can Now Livestream Google Meet Meetings on YouTube
