1. Your Way to Google Meet
Google Meet is flexible. You can use it directly in the browser, as an installable app on the desktop, or as a mobile app. A Google account is always recommended for the full range of functions.
In Browser
On Windows, Mac & Chromebook. Simply open meet.google.com. No installation needed.
As PWA App (Desktop)
A "Web App" that you install from Chrome. Offers quick access from the desktop.
As Mobile App
For iPhone, iPad & Android. Download the "Google Meet" app from the App Store or Play Store.
2. Joining a Meeting
These methods work the same on all devices.
Via Meeting Link
Click on the link from email, calendar, or chat.
Via Meeting Code
Enter the 10-digit code in Meet.
Via Phone Call
Dial the number from the invitation and enter the PIN (audio only).
"Knock"
If you weren't invited, the organizer must admit you.
3. Key Controls
Basic operation is identical on all platforms.
Microphone
Mute
Camera
Turn Off
Options
Backgrounds etc.
4. Tips & Notes
Keep these points in mind for an optimal experience.
Limited without Account
Anonymous participants cannot join meetings from educational accounts, for example.
Mobile: Use Wi-Fi
Video calls consume a lot of data. Use Wi-Fi if possible.
Mobile: Use Headphones
For better sound and less background noise for other participants.
Report Issues
Use the "Report a problem" function in the options to give feedback.
5. Participating Successfully
An online meeting is more than just clicking a link. With the right preparation, you leave a professional impression and ensure a smooth process. Google Meet makes it easy for you to connect with people all over the world – make the most of this opportunity!
Find & Accept Invitation
Check Inbox
The invitation usually comes via email.
Don't Forget Spam Folder
Sometimes invitations land there by mistake.
Add to Calendar
Click "Yes" in the email to add the appointment directly to your Google Calendar.
Your Tech Check Before Starting
Test Run
Open Meet a few minutes early and check camera and microphone in the preview window.
Good Lighting
Sit so that the light comes from the front, not from behind.
Quiet Background
Choose a neutral background or use the blur function.
6. Features Overview
Not all features are available to the same extent on every platform. Here is a clear overview.
7. Become a Data Saver Pro
With these simple steps, you save your mobile data volume without sacrificing important content.
Reduce Quality
Select standard video quality (SD) in the settings. The savings are enormous.
Camera Off!
If you are only listening, turn off your camera. Audio-only participation is the most economical.
Close Background Apps
Make sure no other apps are consuming data unnoticed in the background.
Appendix: Data Usage Comparison
Audio Summary: Data Usage Video Conference
Listen to the summary on data usage of Google Meet, Teams, and Zoom (German).
HD Video: The Heavyweights
Video conferences in high resolution offer the best quality but also consume the most data. Here you can see how the three leading providers perform in maximum HD usage per hour.
Quality vs. Usage: HD vs. SD
Reducing video quality to standard definition (SD) can significantly save your data volume. This chart shows the savings potential per hour.
What Really Affects Data Usage
Video Quality
HD requires significantly more data than SD.
Number of Participants
Each video stream increases usage.
Screen Sharing
Especially with videos or high resolution.