Google announced today that it is adding support for group video calls to the Nest Hub Max through Google Meet and Duo, available now in the U.S. Prior to today's update, Nest Hub Max only supported one-on-one calls.
The new capability allows you to make a group video chat with up to 32 people using the Google Assistant-powered smart display. To start a group call, you will need to create a group in the Duo mobile app first. When that is done, you can use your voice to initiate a call just as you can with one-on-one chats. Then, tap on the screen to choose the Duo group you want to virtually hang out with. This feature also makes use of the Hub Max's auto-framing capabilities to keep you in the frame while you move around. Duo group video calling is also rolling out to other smart displays including the LG XBOOM AI ThinQ WK9, JBL Link View, and Lenovo’s 8-inch and 10-inch smart displays.
The Google Meet group chat support is meant for larger video conferences. With this capability, you can connect with up to 100 participants in a video call through the Hub Max. As usual, you can join meetings by saying “Hey Google, join a meeting” and then typing in the meeting code. You can also immediately hop on the next call through your personal Google Calendar entry.
Google is also launching beta support for G Suite accounts to let you host work meetings through your personal Nest Hub Max. Admins can apply to join the beta program by signing up here. Finally, the search giant is rolling out today the household contacts feature to Google Assistant-powered smart speakers and smart displays in the U.S., allowing you to add personal contacts to speed dial.
