iPhone users can now join Google Meet calls without downloading an app

At a glance:

• iPhone and iPad users can now join Google Meet calls directly through Safari without installing the Meet or Gmail apps.
• New Google Meet features include in‑person “Take Notes for me” and Drive “projects,” plus Gemini 3.5 Live Translate with a listening mode.
• Google Meet for Android Auto is rolling out widely, expanding its web‑first capabilities.

What’s new for iPhone and iPad users

iPhone and iPad users have long needed the Google Meet or Gmail app to join a video call, but that requirement is now gone. The recent update allows Safari to open a meeting link directly, so users can join without installing any additional apps. This change rolls out starting today and may take a short time to appear for all users.

• iPhone
• iPad The process is straightforward: clicking a meeting link in Safari brings up a simple entry screen where you can type your name if you don’t have a Google account, and then you’re placed directly into the call. Even if neither the Meet nor Gmail apps are installed, the web option should automatically become available, though a prompt to use the app may still appear briefly. This ensures that users without the required apps can still participate in meetings.

How the web‑based join works

When you tap a Google Meet link on an iPhone or iPad, Safari launches and displays the meeting details. You can join by entering your name, and the call connects without any app launch, providing a seamless experience. This approach aligns with Google’s broader push to make Meet a web‑first service accessible across devices. Even if neither the Meet nor Gmail apps are installed, the web option should automatically become available, though a prompt to use the app may still appear briefly. This ensures that users without the required apps can still participate in meetings.

Additional Google Meet features and Android Auto rollout

Google has added several new capabilities to Meet beyond the web join. In‑person “Take Notes for me” lets the host automatically capture meeting notes, while Drive “projects” integrates file sharing directly into the call. Additionally, Gemini 3.5 Live Translate introduces a listening mode that transcribes speech in real time for translation. Google also encourages users to follow Ben on the following platforms:

• Twitter/X
• Threads
• Bluesky
• Instagram Google Meet for Android Auto is also rolling out widely, bringing the meeting experience to vehicle infotainment systems. This expansion underscores Google’s strategy to embed Meet into multiple ecosystems, from desktops to cars, enhancing accessibility and cross‑platform continuity.

Impact and what to watch next

The removal of the app requirement could boost adoption of Google Meet among iPhone users who previously avoided installing multiple conferencing apps. Businesses and educators may find it easier to schedule ad‑hoc meetings, potentially increasing overall usage metrics and affecting competitor platforms. This shift may also influence how other video‑conferencing services approach web‑only access. Looking ahead, Google may extend this web‑join functionality to other iOS browsers and possibly to Android devices without the Meet app. Keeping an eye on future updates to Safari integration, additional AI‑driven features, and the broader rollout of Meet across Google’s ecosystem will be essential. Stakeholders should monitor how these changes impact user engagement and market competition.