Thursday, March 17, 2022

Built-in Webex interoperability on Google Meet hardware expanded to devices with remote control

What’s changing 

In December 2022, we began supporting built-in Webex interoperability on Google Meet hardware devices. When it originally launched, this feature required a Meet hardware device with either a connected touch controller or built-in touchscreen. With this latest update, we've added Webex interoperability support for Google Meet hardware devices that use only a remote control. 

Built-in Webex interoperability will now be available across all supported Google Meet hardware devices that have not yet reached their auto-update expiration date. 


Who’s impacted 

Admins and end users 


Why it’s important 

We hope this update makes it even easier for Google Workspace customers and their users to connect and collaborate with people outside the Google Meet ecosystem. 


Additional details 

There is no additional cost associated with this new built-in Webex interoperability feature on supported devices. 

Please note that core video conferencing features are supported. Some advanced features, such as polls, breakout rooms, and dual-screen support, may not be available when using Meet hardware to join Webex calls. 

For interoperability needs beyond Cisco Webex, we recommend Pexip. Pexip enables users to join Meet calls from a range of third-party video conferencing hardware, including older devices that may not support built-in interoperability. Use this Help Center article to learn more about Pexip. 


Getting started 

  • Admins: Webex interop on Google Meet hardware will be available on devices by default and can be disabled at the OU level at Devices > Google Meet hardware > Settings > Device Settings. 
  • End users: When enabled by your admin, you can join a Webex meeting from a Google Meet hardware device by: 
    • Joining an ad-hoc call by selecting Join a meeting using your remote control and then selecting Webex from the dropdown options 
    • Joining a scheduled call by adding a room to an event with Webex meeting details. 
      • Note: Calendar events that originate outside of Google Calendar must be duplicated and populated with room details manually. 
    • Visit the Help Center to learn more about Meet interoperability. 

Rollout pace 


Availability 

  • Available to all Google Workspace customers, as well as legacy G Suite Basic and Business customers 
  • Available for all supported Google Meet hardware devices that have not yet reached their auto-update expiration date.

Resources: