Now, screen sharing is available on Google Duo
What's the story
Finally, the users of Google Duo are getting the much-needed ability to share their screens during video calls. The feature, as the folks at Android Police reported, has started showing up for Android users with a server-side change and is working pretty seamlessly at the moment. Here is all you need to know about the capability and its availability.
Option
New option in the Duo app
The new screen sharing option comes as part of the overflow menu of Duo, accessed by tapping the three-dotted button during a call. Once you click on it, the service will ask for permission to expose your sensitive information. As you approve the prompt, it will stop your front-facing camera and start sharing the live screen feed with the person on the other side.
Recepient's end
Recipient can follow along easily
After screen sharing is activated, the person on the receiving end of the screen data will be able to follow along what the first person is doing on their phone. They will not be able to see the live video of the sharer but a small window will keep showing their own front-camera feed on the top right corner.
Ending
Notification button to end screen sharing
While sharing, a red Chromecasting icon will appear on the status bar, indicating that your screen is being shared. However, the sharer can easily stop screen sharing from the notification shade, where two options will be available - end the call itself or end Screen share. If screen sharing is stopped, the front camera activates, going back to a regular video call.
Availability
Availability likely in coming weeks
As mentioned, the screen sharing feature is being enabled through a server-side update. The team at AP got the capability on Duo v105.0.331, which means you should be on this or a newer build to increase your chances of having it. Hopefully, Google will complete the roll-out in the coming weeks, enabling the feature for everyone using Duo for Android.