How to use Gemini to generate unique backgrounds in Google Meet

Engadget - May 11th, 2025
Open on Engadget

Google's Gemini AI has introduced a new feature that allows users to create customized AI-generated backgrounds for virtual meetings on Google Meet. This feature, available on desktop and Android devices, leverages the power of AI to generate backgrounds based on user prompts. Users can specify detailed scenarios like 'a magical sunny forest glade' or 'a gym full of cakes' to personalize their meeting environment. To access this feature, users need an eligible Google Workspace or Google One AI Premium subscription, or participation in Google’s Workspace Labs early access program. While adding a creative element to meetings, these AI backgrounds may increase battery usage.

This development by Google reflects its ongoing efforts to enhance user experience by integrating AI into its services. By allowing users to tailor their virtual meeting environments, Google is tapping into the demand for personalization in digital communication platforms. The feature's availability on multiple devices, except iPhones, broadens its accessibility, though it also highlights the ongoing device compatibility challenges in tech innovation. The implications of such AI-driven customization extend beyond mere aesthetics, potentially influencing user engagement and satisfaction in virtual interactions.

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RATING

7.6
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a detailed and accurate overview of Google's Gemini AI features, particularly its integration with Google Meet for AI-generated backgrounds. It excels in clarity and timeliness, offering practical instructions for users interested in exploring these new capabilities. However, the story could improve in transparency by citing sources and disclosing any potential conflicts of interest. Additionally, while the article addresses a topic of moderate public interest, it could enhance engagement and impact by exploring the broader implications of AI in digital communication, such as privacy concerns and ethical considerations. Overall, the article is a reliable and informative resource for readers interested in the latest developments in AI technology.

RATING DETAILS

9
Accuracy

The story is largely accurate, presenting factual claims about Google's Gemini AI and its integration with Google Meet. The description of Gemini's capabilities, such as handling data analysis in Google Sheets and creating AI-generated backgrounds, aligns with Google's documented features. The article correctly states the requirements for using these features, including the need for specific subscriptions and compatible devices. However, the claim about using past conversations to inform responses requires further verification, as it isn't explicitly covered in Google's official documentation. Overall, the story's accuracy is high, with minor areas needing additional verification.

7
Balance

The article presents a balanced view of the new features of Google's Gemini AI, focusing on its capabilities and user experience. It highlights both the benefits, such as the ability to create customized backgrounds, and the limitations, like increased battery usage. However, the story could improve by including perspectives from users or experts on the potential privacy implications of using AI-generated content. Additionally, the article could address any criticisms or challenges faced by users, which would provide a more comprehensive view.

8
Clarity

The article is well-written, with a clear and logical structure that guides the reader through the features of Google's Gemini AI. The language is straightforward, making the technical aspects accessible to a general audience. The step-by-step instructions for using the AI-generated backgrounds are particularly clear and helpful. However, the article could benefit from a brief introduction or conclusion to frame the information and provide context for readers unfamiliar with the topic.

8
Source quality

The article appears to rely on credible sources, such as Google's official announcements and documentation, to substantiate its claims about the Gemini AI features. However, the story does not explicitly cite these sources, which could enhance its credibility. Including direct references or links to Google's documentation or statements would improve the article's reliability and provide readers with the opportunity to verify the information independently.

6
Transparency

The article provides a clear explanation of the features and how to use them but lacks transparency in terms of sourcing and potential conflicts of interest. It does not disclose whether the information is based on firsthand experience, press releases, or third-party reports. Additionally, there is no mention of any affiliations or sponsorships that might influence the reporting. Greater transparency about the sources and methodology would help readers assess the impartiality of the article.

Sources

  1. https://support.google.com/meet/answer/13954947
  2. https://www.engadget.com/ai/how-to-use-gemini-to-generate-unique-backgrounds-in-google-meet-130000553.html
  3. https://support.google.com/meet/answer/13784433?co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid
  4. http://workspaceupdates.googleblog.com/2025/03/updates-for-generating-meeting-backgrounds-with-gemini.html
  5. https://chromeunboxed.com/you-can-now-prompt-google-meet-for-any-ai-generated-background-you-can-imagine/