In a surprising turn of events, Google is making significant changes to the conferencing capabilities of its beloved Nest Hub Max. The tech giant is shifting its focus away from smart devices, and as a result, it’s discontinuing support for Zoom and altering the way users can access Google Meet meetings on this popular device. As reported by 9to5Google, some users have already started receiving notifications informing them that they will no longer be able to join meetings from their Nest Hub Max starting September 28. This development closely follows Zoom’s own announcement in July that Nest Hub Max support for the video calling service would end on September 30, indicating Google’s swift desire to bid adieu to these services by October.
Google clarified its stance on these changes, stating, “support for joining meetings via meeting codes and links in Meet” will be discontinued. However, it also made sure to reassure users that there would be “no change to making 1:1 and group video calls to friends, family, and businesses with Google Meet.” So, while certain meeting functionalities are being trimmed down, the core video calling capabilities of the Nest Hub Max will remain intact.
Remember when the Google Nest Hub Max burst onto the scene back in 2019? It wowed us with its high-quality display and exceptional sound quality, earning an impressive 86 in our review. Initially, it only supported Google Duo for video calling, but as the pandemic swept the globe, Zoom and Google Meet were added to the roster, making the device a must-have for virtual gatherings. Fast forward to today, and those very programs are on their way out. Additionally, Google ceased support for all gaming and third-party voice apps in June, and the migration of Nest Cam to the Google Home app is still a work in progress.
Understandably, Nest Hub Max owners are less than thrilled with these developments. One disgruntled Reddit user succinctly summed up the sentiment, asking, “What will it become? A giant paperweight?” Others have even contemplated seeking refunds, given that the allure of video calling was a significant factor in their decision to purchase the device.
Update: As of September 18, 2023, at 4 PM ET, it’s important to clarify that Google isn’t completely discontinuing Meet support. Instead, it’s specifically ending support for joining meetings via codes and links. This clarification should provide some relief to users concerned about the fate of their beloved Nest Hub Max.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Meeting Support Changes
What changes are happening with Google Nest Hub Max’s meeting support?
Google Nest Hub Max is discontinuing support for Zoom and altering the way users can join Google Meet meetings. Starting from September 28, users won’t be able to join meetings from the device. Zoom support was already set to end on September 30.
What is Google’s stance on these changes?
Google clarified that while it’s discontinuing support for joining meetings via meeting codes and links in Google Meet, there will be no change to making 1:1 and group video calls with Google Meet on the Nest Hub Max.
How did Google Nest Hub Max evolve since its launch in 2019?
Initially, the Nest Hub Max only supported Google Duo for video calls. However, as the pandemic unfolded, Zoom and Google Meet were added to its capabilities, making it a popular choice for virtual gatherings.
Are Nest Hub Max owners satisfied with these changes?
Many Nest Hub Max owners are displeased with the alterations. Some have expressed concerns about the device’s future usability and have even considered seeking refunds due to the changes in meeting support.
Is Google completely discontinuing support for Google Meet on the Nest Hub Max?
No, Google is not entirely discontinuing support for Google Meet on the Nest Hub Max. It’s specifically ending support for joining meetings via meeting codes and links, ensuring that core video calling capabilities remain intact.
More about Meeting Support Changes
- 9to5Google’s Report on Google Nest Hub Max Changes
- Google’s Official Statement on Meeting Support
- Review of Google Nest Hub Max
- User Reactions on Reddit
- Zoom’s Announcement on Support End
- Google’s Previous Changes to Nest Hub Max
