Google Meet is on Apple CarPlay so you can pretend to work while driving
Jon is a seasoned journalist who has written definitive articles on consumer technology for publications like Engadget, Android Authority and BetaKit. He is an expert in making technology accessible, ranging from mobile and PC to emerging platforms such as wearable devices. When he’s not writing, he goes on adventures with his family and is an avid photographer.
You might get in your car to escape work, but now you can act like you’re productive when you’re on the road. Google Meet calling is now available via Apple CarPlay on iPhones connected to supported vehicles.
The updated app allows you to participate in audio-only calls. Video is turned off (including iPhone cameras) to “stay focused on driving,” Google says. You can also check your scheduled meetings to make sure you join a session you can’t miss.
You won’t have any CarPlay-specific features. However, Google sees this as useful for setting up meetings while traveling or staying in touch between in-person appointments. Of course, this also means you can leave work early without completely avoiding your tasks: you can listen to an afternoon meeting on the way home instead of staying at your desk.
When will Google Meet be available for Android Auto?
Notably, Google offers Meet for CarPlay, but not its own Android Auto platform. A version for the in-car experience on Android will be available soon, Google says.
iPhone-only support leaves Google at a long-standing disadvantage, if not for much longer. WebEx and Zoom audio calling came to Android Auto in September 2023, while Microsoft Teams arrived in February 2024. Microsoft Teams enabled CarPlay support in September 2021. WebEx brought CarPlay Meetings in June 2022, and Zoom brought similar audio calling in May 2018. In other words, you still need to use a third-party service (or use your device as a speaker) to host in-car meetings on your Android phone.
The promise of an imminent Android Auto update shows Google is closing the gap. And while driver assistance isn’t essential, it theoretically incentivizes businesses to adopt Google Workspace instead of relying on alternatives like Microsoft 365 and Zoom Workplace. You won’t need to switch devices or apps just to stay in touch with your colleagues.
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