Prepare Google Duo One of the most popular video calling apps on Android. It comes pre-installed on many Android devices, just like FaceTime on iPhoneBesides, it works. Google Duo Also on iOS and the web, making it universally compatible with phones and computers. We've covered some of the Essential Google Duo Tips and Tricks For better video calls, the app has evolved significantly over the past few years. Also, a host of new features have emerged that help enhance the video calling experience. This makes a difference whether you're using it for professional purposes or chatting with loved ones.
Note that these tips are primarily valid for Google Duo on Android. Some may not apply when using Duo on other platforms.
1. Take notes or doodle during the call.
While on a Google Duo call, you can enable Doodling Screen to jot down some quick tidbits from an important discussion. Here's how to access it.
Step 1: during Duo call , Click Three-dot menu In the lower right corner to bring up Additional Options.
Step 2: Click on Family button Then, click on Doodle icon that appear on the screen.
Step 3: You will now get blank white board Where you can write notes or doodle.
2. Add background effects and filters
Google Duo has a lot of effects and filters similar to those found in popular apps like Instagram and Snapchat. They're like an overlay that adds certain elements to the background and, in some cases, even your face. These effects add an element of fun to your call. Here's how to access them.
Step 1: Click on Three-dot menu In the lower right corner and select Effects icon in the tape.
You can continue to navigate between the multiple effects displayed as thumbnails at the bottom of the screen.
3. Change your face with AR EMOJIS
Aside from adding effects to your video preview, you can add augmented reality emojis that replace your face with a character's and mimic their expressions. Here's how.
Step 1: Click on Three-dot menu At the bottom, use the bar to select AR emojis.
Step 2: Scroll through Different options Choose the option that suits you.
Duo will display your selected emoji over your face in the video preview.
4. Set the image to blur the background.
There are times when you might have a cluttered background during a video call. Portrait mode, or background blur, is useful when you want to highlight just your face and blur the background to avoid distractions.
Again, click on three vertical dots and select Portrait option From the bar during a Duo call.
5. Move with auto-framing
Apple has introduced a feature known as Center Stage , which uses the camera to keep your face centered on the screen even if you move. It works by zooming in or out on your face and adjusting the frame accordingly during a FaceTime call. Google Duo offers a similar feature called Auto-Framing.
Enable auto frame switching and place your phone on a surface. As you move around, the camera will zoom in or out to keep you in focus. This is a useful feature.
6. Include more people with wide-angle camera mode
Sometimes, you may want to fit multiple people into the frame during a video call—whether it's family members or your coworkers for a meeting—that's where wide-angle mode comes in handy.
Enable wide-angle mode using the toggle switch in the bottom bar.
The front camera lens will be slightly wider to accommodate more people.
7. Share your screen and watch movies together.
You no longer have to host a meeting on Google Meet To share your screen and consume content with your friends or family, Google Duo now has a built-in option that lets you do just that. You can choose to share your entire screen or a specific app, and even decide whether or not to share audio. Here's how.
Step 1: in Duo app , Click Three-dot menu At the bottom, then select Direct share To start the screen sharing process.
Step 2: Locate The application that you want to share. If you want Share your entire screen , select Share Now.
Step 3: Choose whether you want Share system audio By enabling the toggle at the top.
Step 4: Your screen will now be shared with the person you are on the call with.
Step 5: Use the toggle switches Additional Offers To change Settings Or stop screen sharing.
8. See more in the dark with low light mode
The low-light mode switch brightens your face and background, making it easier for the group to see you in the dark. This is a useful feature if you're in a dimly lit environment.
Don't expect it to work miracles. It works well in insufficient light but can't do anything if there's no light to work with at all.
9. Your preview mirror
By default, the image captured by your phone's front-facing camera is mirrored. So, if you raise your right hand, it appears as if your left hand is being held up by the other person. Think of it as a reflection in a mirror.
Fortunately, you can reverse the mirrored image to correct this phenomenon directly from Google Duo itself.
This is a great in-app option.
10. Video call on a bigger screen
When there are multiple people on a video call, not everyone may be able to see the screen contents, especially if it's on a smartphone. That's why Google gives you the option to mirror your screen to a larger display like a TV or projector. Here's how to do it.
Step 1: Click on Three-dot menu Below and select Smart View button When making a call.
Step 2: You'll now see a pop-up window with a list of nearby devices you can send to. Select the device Which you choose.
The video call will be sent to the screen.
Improve your video calling experience
With these few tips and tricks, you can improve your video calling experience on Google DuoWhether you want to have some fun with AR emojis or blur the background for a professional look, these features are sure to help.
