Google Chat introduces audio huddles and Gemini app enhancements for Workspace users

Google is expanding its productivity toolkit with two major updates for Workspace users: the introduction of Huddles in Google Chat and the rollout of the Gemini app for Android and iOS. These new features aim to streamline collaboration and enhance productivity, whether you’re in a meeting or working on the go.

Google Chat Huddles: Instant-On Audio Meetings

Unveiled in August 2023, Huddles in Google Chat provide an audio-first meeting experience that integrates seamlessly into your conversations. These “instant-on” meetings aim to simplify the process of connecting with teammates without the need to share meeting links manually.

How Huddles Work

• Accessing Huddles: Found in the top-right corner of Google Chat conversations (web version), users can start a Huddle directly from any direct message, group conversation, or Space.
• Recipient Notifications: Participants will see a message chip in their chat thread indicating who started the Huddle.
• Controls and Features: Huddles open in a floating window, offering easy access to controls like adding video, screen sharing, and ending the session with a quick toggle.

Powered by Google Meet, Huddles support multitasking, allowing users to resize the meeting window or share their screens without interrupting their workflow. This integration bridges the gap between quick chats and full-scale meetings.

Availability

Google Chat Huddles are rolling out over the coming weeks to the following Workspace tiers:

• Business Plans: Starter, Standard, Plus
• Enterprise Plans: Starter, Standard, Plus
• Essentials: Essentials and Essentials Plus
• Nonprofits: Google Workspace for Nonprofits
• Frontline Plans: Starter and Standard

Gemini App for Android and iOS

Building on its September announcement, Google is also rolling out the Gemini app for Android and iOS to Workspace users. This app combines advanced research capabilities with on-the-go tools designed to boost efficiency.

Key Features

1. Quick Research and Answers: Users can search for information or get fast insights directly within the app.
2. Visual Tools: Use your phone’s camera to snap pictures of handwritten notes and convert them into digital formats, such as Google Docs or Gmail drafts. You can also turn whiteboard charts into polished presentations.
3. Mobile Accessibility: With the Gemini app, Workspace users can stay productive while away from their desks.

Limitations

While the app provides many useful tools, some features are not yet available:

• Gemini Workspace Extension: Features like integration with Gmail, Calendar, Docs, Drive, Keep, and Tasks are still in development.
• File Uploads and Gems: These functionalities are unavailable at launch.
• Work Profile Support: On Android, the app doesn’t currently support Work Profiles.

Supported Workspace Tiers

Gemini is being introduced to a wide range of Workspace plans, including:

• Business Plans: Starter, Standard, Plus
• Enterprise Plans: Starter, Standard, Plus
• Education Plans: Fundamentals, Standard, Plus
• Frontline Plans: Starter and Standard
• Nonprofits: Google Workspace for Nonprofits
• Add-ons: Gemini Business, Gemini Enterprise, Gemini Education, and Education Premium

Additional details about availability and supported languages are provided on Google’s official pages.

What This Means for Workspace Users

With Huddles, teams can initiate quick, audio-first meetings directly from their chats, making spontaneous collaboration smoother and more efficient. Meanwhile, the Gemini app empowers mobile productivity, helping users research, create, and organize while on the go.

These updates reflect Google’s ongoing commitment to enhancing collaboration and productivity across its Workspace ecosystem, ensuring users have access to intuitive tools that meet the demands of modern work environments.