Google Meet is set to enhance the virtual meeting experience with a significant update introducing new layout options aimed at larger meetings. The new feature, known as “Dynamic layouts,” leverages artificial intelligence to prioritize participants by cropping unnecessary backgrounds, thereby allowing for more faces to appear in a single layout. One notable aspect of these dynamic layouts is the introduction of two new tile types: portrait tiles and dynamic tiles. Portrait tiles, which are accessible to all users, focus on optimizing face visibility by removing excess background space.
This is designed to make more efficient use of screen space, ultimately making it easier for participants to engage in discussions. Similarly, dynamic tiles are specifically designed for Google Meet conference room hardware. They break the video feed into individual tiles for up to three participants in the same room, enhancing the visibility of each speaker. AI-driven active-speaker detection highlights the active participant without requiring special equipment, allowing viewers to interact more effectively with those speaking.
In addition to these features, users can now pin up to six tiles to their layout instead of just three, improving the customization options during meetings. Visual changes have been made as well; for instance, placeholder tiles for speakers with their cameras off now have a color theme. While the dynamic layouts will become the default option, users have the flexibility to revert to the previous layout style if desired. Google emphasizes the importance of these updates for accessibility purposes, particularly for sign-language interpreters who need to ensure their hand movements are fully visible.
The rollout for these features is expected to start on March 31, 2025, with a gradual implementation over several weeks for all users, regardless of whether they have personal or paid Workspace accounts.