Google announced automatic room check-in for Google Meet on Android and iOS devices in conference rooms. The feature uses proximity detection through an ultrasound signal emitted by conference-room hardware, detected by the device’s microphone, to highlight the “Use Companion mode” button in the green room for a single-tap join and seamless check-in.
The green room screen, which appears before entering a meeting, displays the “Use Companion mode” button prominently when the ultrasound signal is detected. Users tap this highlighted button to join the call directly in Companion mode, where the personal phone or tablet supplements the room’s hardware without taking primary control. This process automatically checks the user into the correct conference room upon joining.
Conference-room hardware broadcasts the ultrasound signal continuously when active. Compatible Android and iOS devices listen via their microphones for this inaudible signal. Detection triggers the interface change in Google Meet, guiding users to the optimal joining method for their location. Companion mode ensures the personal device pairs correctly with the room system.
Google Meet identifies the user’s presence in the room through this proximity mechanism. The system prevents disruptive audio feedback by directing users away from options that would cause echoes, such as joining via the room device and personal device simultaneously. Users start meetings echo-free as the automatic check-in assigns the room correctly from the outset.
Minimum build requirements apply for Android devices. Users verify the Meet app version through Android Settings > Apps > Meet > App Info > Version, requiring build 336.0. For Gmail, check Android Settings > Apps > Gmail > App Info > Version, needing 2025.12.01.
- Minimum iOS build for Meet: 336.0, accessed via Meet > Settings → About, terms, and privacy > Version.
- Minimum iOS build for Gmail: 6.0.251201, found in Settings > About Gmail > Version.
Google Workspace administrators find proximity detection enabled by default for conference rooms. They toggle it on or off at the individual room level through the Google Workspace Admin Help Center, which provides instructions for configuration.
End users experience the Companion mode entry point highlighted automatically in the green room upon signal detection. After tapping to join, the system checks them into the room without further action. Manual check-in remains an option post-joining. Troubleshooting for issues directs to the Google Help Center.
- Rapid Release domains: Gradual rollout up to 15 days starting January 13, 2025.
- Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout up to 15 days starting February 2, 2025.
The feature extends to all Google Workspace customers and Workspace Individual subscribers, covering editions with Meet access.
Resources include Google Workspace Admin Help for turning proximity detection on or off, and Google Help for using proximity detection with Google Meet.
