You will never have to use the “raise hand” button again, thanks to a new feature introduced by Google in Google Meet. Callers can now signal their intention by simply raising their actual hand, eliminating the need to click a button. This feature, initially in the demo stage, is now accessible to users.
Before utilizing this feature, you need to enable it. Here’s how:
Google Introduces a Feature for AI Hand Recognition
The hands-free functionality, launched earlier this year and now live, allows users to raise their hand naturally for recognition. Google Workspaces Updates site mentioned, “Previously, users had to click the hand-raise icon in Google Meet.” With the new feature, users can raise their physical hand, and Meet will detect it through gesture recognition starting immediately.
Users can move their hand away from their face and body and maintain the gesture until the hand-raise indicator turns green for detection. The hand-raise button is no longer required.
This recent update showcases Google’s integration of AI into various products, such as the Google Maps photo engine, the “Assist me write” tool, Immersive View, and Google Lens.
Significance of Hand Recognition Feature on Google
While the hand recognition feature is innovative, it may not drastically change your life. Raising your hand manually requires a similar level of effort as clicking the hand-raise button during meetings.
However, there are scenarios where this feature can be beneficial. For example, when you are away from your desk, using equipment like a treadmill, or if your hands are occupied or dirty.
Another useful Google Meet function introduced recently is the Portrait Touch-Up feature, which allows users to apply filters to their face for a more polished appearance, ideal for remote workers.
Activating Hand Recognition Function on Google Meet
To enable gesture detection, go to More options > Reactions > Hand Raise Gesture.
For active speakers, the feature is automatically disabled to avoid confusion between speaking gestures and hand-raising. It activates once the speaker finishes talking.
The rollout of the new feature to scheduled release domains occurred between November 28 and December 12. The movement monitoring tool is available for users of Google Workspace Business Plus, Business Standard, Enterprise Essentials, Entrepreneur Plus, Enterprise Starter, Education Plus, and Teaching and Learning Upgrade customers.
