Google has introduced an exciting new feature for its video conferencing platform, Meet. This innovative addition allows users to “pop out” the video of the person they’re chatting with into a separate window. This means multitasking just got easier since users can now work on their computers without being glued to the video call window.
However, this seemingly efficient feature might have a downside: users could pay even less attention to the person they’re conversing with. When not focused on the video call window, engagement in the conversation may decrease, leading to misunderstandings and overlooked information.
Moreover, the pop-out window could make it harder for users to pick up on body language and other nonverbal cues essential for effective communication. These cues risk getting lost when users don’t have the video call window in full view.
In a nutshell, Google Meet’s new pop-out window feature is a double-edged sword. While it could prove helpful for some users, it might also cause a decline in attention and communication. To make the most of this feature without falling into its pitfalls, users should exercise caution and be aware of potential drawbacks.
Here are a few tips for using the pop-out window feature without sacrificing attention and communication:
- Reserve the feature for when multitasking is necessary.
- Stay engaged in the conversation, even when you’re not focused on the video call window.
- Keep an eye on body language and nonverbal signals, even when you’re not focused on the video call screen.
If you discover that the pop-out window feature isn’t helping you stay attentive and maintain effective communication, consider turning it off.