In the middle of this lockdown in the pandemic situation, the video calls reached a new height. And, as we know Google makes the correct decision at the correct time. Google decided to launch “Google Duo” for Android TVs. But, don’t get excited as it is currently in the beta stage and it is not fully working. To know more, continue reading.
Now, if you have Android TV, go to the Google Play Store and search for “Google Duo”, you can see the video calling app available in the Play Store, ready to install. You can also install remotely by using your phone. Just go to – play.google.com from your browser and you can install from there by selecting “Android TV” as the device when installing.
But, as I said it’s in Beta Stage. The performance will not be up to the mark. As soon as you go to the “App Drawer” after installing the app. It will not be available there. You have to open the app by going to Settings or any other sideloaded launcher – Sadly, this is the only option we have currently.
When the app opens and completes the setup, you will see an interface very similar to the Android version of the app. You can make calls and there will be two options
- Video Call
- Audio Call
If you select, “Audio Only” as an option, Duo will use your TV remote’s microphone for calling. This method may vary from device to device.
Now, let’s talk about issues. You can’t receive calls using Google Duo on Android TVs. Hence, giving the app only half of the experience of video calling.
In order to do “Video-Call” on TV, you need a webcam. UVC webcam official support was added in Android TV 9. But, there are a few streaming devices that offered support from the beginning. They are Nvidia Shield, Xiaomi Redmi Box, Xiaomi Redmi Box S. The recommended UVC webcams for video calls on Android TV are Logitech C270 (HD), C615 (Full HD), and C920 (Full HD).
Here is a full list of UVC webcams:
Let us know your thoughts on Google Duo’s Beta Update on Android TV and How you will use it in the comments section. Thank You
