Google has announced that a highly requested feature in Google Meet that allows users to apply “beauty” effects during video calls has finally been introduced, and the expanded rollout to remaining accounts is scheduled to begin on October 28, theverge reports.
There are two photo modes available that provide different levels of skin smoothing, under-eye brightening and teeth whitening. The “Precise” mode, as the name suggests, provides very light cosmetic adjustments, while the “Smooth” mode is a touch heavier with enhancements.
Regardless of which mode you select, Google claims that it enables users to slightly improve your appearance, so it appears that the new feature is not intended for making major adjustments.
Vertical Touch will be turned off by default and can be enabled in Google Meet settings. The feature is only available to users with premium Google accounts, including Business Standard, Business Plus, Enterprise Essentials, Education Plus, Google One, and Google Workspace accounts.
Given how widespread filters and face-smoothing effects have become across video-related apps like TikTok and Instagram, it's surprising that it took Google this long to introduce similar tools for Meet.
Rival video conferencing apps like Microsoft Teams and Zoom already offer a range of “beautification” features that blur a user’s skin or even apply virtual makeup effects.
However, this should be a welcome feature for employees associated with using Google Meet via a Google account in the workplace especially those who typically leave their webcams on when they're not looking their best.