Google Meet update fixes major audio sharing issue
What's the story
Google Meet has introduced a new feature to enhance user experience during presentations. The update lets users share full system audio in meetings, instead of just the sound from a single browser tab. This is especially useful for presentations involving videos, demos, or multiple apps running at the same time.
Past issues
Previous limitations and user challenges
Previously, Google Meet only allowed audio sharing from a specific Chrome tab. If a presenter tried to play sound from another app or browser window, participants wouldn't hear it. This restriction often led to confusion during meetings, especially in work and education environments where multimedia content is common.
Functionality
How the new feature works
With the latest update, presenters can share audio from their entire system. When users hit "Present," a new toggle called "Also share system audio" appears. If this option is enabled, all sounds played on the device will be heard by meeting participants. The feature works when users present a window or their full screen and captures audio output from music players, videos, and third-party apps.
Compatibility
Platform compatibility and user requirements
The system audio sharing feature is available on macOS version 14.02 or later and Windows 11 devices. Users also need Google Chrome version 142 or newer to access the feature. However, Google has noted that some users with adaptive or specialized audio setups may still be limited to sharing audio from Chrome tabs only.
Deployment
Rollout strategy and future availability
Google is initially rolling out the update to Rapid Release domains, with wider availability expected in early 2026. The feature is expected to reach more users across standard Google Workspace accounts as the rollout progresses. By enabling full system audio sharing, Google Meet removes a long-standing limitation that affected virtual presentations and improves the overall meeting experience for users.