Google Meet lets you blur your background, replace it with an image, or apply an immersive background — before you join a call or while you’re in one. It’s built in, so you don’t need any extra software. Here’s how to change your background on desktop and mobile, and what your device needs to support it.
Blur, image or immersive background
Google Meet gives you three options. A background blur keeps you in focus while softening whatever is behind you — light or full blur. A background image replaces your surroundings entirely, using Google’s presets or your own uploaded photo. Immersive backgrounds add subtle animation. Blur is the safest choice for a professional call; a clean image works well when your real background is distracting.
Before vs during the call
You can set your background on the green room (pre-join) screen before you enter, or change it mid-call from the three-dot menu by choosing “Apply visual effects”. Setting it before you join is usually best, so you’re never briefly on camera with an unflattering background while you find the control. Your choice sticks for future meetings until you change it.
Device requirements
Background effects need a reasonably modern device, because the blur and replacement are processed in real time. On low-powered computers or older phones the option may be greyed out or cause lag. If you can’t see background effects, update your browser or the Google Meet app, check your device meets Google’s requirements, and make sure your organisation hasn’t disabled the feature.
