Streamlining Your Google Meet Experience: Community Insights on Default Link Behavior
Navigating the Google Workspace ecosystem often involves seamless transitions between applications. However, a common point of friction arises when Google Meet links, despite having the dedicated app installed, insist on opening in a web browser. This community insight, drawn from a recent Google support forum thread, explores why this happens and offers practical solutions for a smoother Google Meet experience.
The Problem: Google Meet Links Opening in Browser
Rebecca Dorer, like many users, encountered an issue where clicking a Google Meet link consistently opened a new browser tab instead of launching the installed Google Meet application. This behavior can be frustrating, disrupting workflow and adding unnecessary steps to joining a meeting.
- The Core Issue: Meet links defaulting to browser despite the app being present.
- User Frustration: Desire for direct app launch for efficiency.
Community Solutions and Workarounds
The community quickly rallied to provide device-specific advice and effective workarounds.
For Android Users
PeggyK, a community expert, provided a direct solution for Android devices to ensure Meet links open within the app:
- Open your Android device's Settings.
- Navigate to Apps (or Applications).
- Locate and tap on the Meet app.
- Tap "Open by Default".
- Ensure it's set to "In the app".
- Verify the "verified links" section includes
meet.google.comto confirm the app is configured to handle these URLs.
If these settings aren't available or don't resolve the issue, a temporary workaround might be to long-press the Meet link and manually select the Meet app from the "Open with" options.
For Desktop (Windows/Chrome) Users
For users on desktop operating systems like Windows, particularly when using Google Chrome, the solution involves a slightly different approach. NinCoT, another Product Expert, highlighted that the native Google Meet app might not always offer the desired direct link integration.
- Bookmark the Landing Page: A simple workaround is to bookmark
https://meet.google.com/landing, which displays your scheduled meetings. - Launch from Gmail: Many users find it convenient to start Meet directly from the Gmail interface.
- Send Feedback: Both experts suggested sending feedback within the Meet app to highlight this functionality gap to Google.
The Progressive Web App (PWA) Solution
The most effective workaround for desktop users, as confirmed by Rebecca Dorer, is to utilize the Google Meet Progressive Web App (PWA). A PWA functions like a native app but is built using web technologies, offering a dedicated window and often better integration than a browser tab.
- Download the PWA: The Meet PWA can be downloaded and installed directly from Google Chrome (version 73 and up).
- Dedicated App Screen: Once installed, the PWA opens in its own separate window, mimicking a desktop application.
- Successful Resolution: Rebecca confirmed that switching to the PWA successfully resolved her issue, providing the desired "app-like" experience.
// Example of a Meet link (for illustrative purposes)
// https://meet.google.com/abc-defg-hij
This solution offers a middle ground, providing the convenience of a dedicated application interface without the need for a full native desktop client that might not offer the desired link-handling behavior.
Key Takeaways for a Seamless Meet Experience
Ensuring your Google Meet links open correctly can significantly enhance your meeting workflow. Here's a summary of best practices:
- Check Android Settings: If on Android, configure "Open by Default" for the Meet app.
- Embrace the PWA: For desktop users, the Google Meet Progressive Web App is a highly recommended solution for a dedicated, app-like experience.
- Provide Feedback: Continuously share your experience with Google to help improve app integration and functionality across Google Workspace.
By implementing these community-tested solutions, you can ensure your Google Meet links take you directly where you need to be, streamlining your communication and collaboration efforts.