Android adds services across devices: call transfer, instant hotspot

Google’s Better Together initiative to improve the experience of owning multiple Android devices continues today with “cross-device services.”

Call casting allows you to “switch device mid-call in Google Meet” if you want a larger screen or need to use a mobile device. Google uses the One-Touch Cast branding and icon, allowing you to “seamlessly switch” between your phone, tablet or browser on your Android computer.

This concept is similar to Apple’s Handoff feature on iPhone, iPad and Mac. It requires support at the application level, and it all starts with Google’s proprietary video conferencing solution.

Meanwhile, you can quickly connect your Android tablet or Chromebook to your phone’s internet connection. It’s called instant hotspot, and it works “without the extra step of entering your password.” Bluetooth must be enabled on these devices.

You’ll find the new “Cross Device Services” preferences in the Android Settings app > Google > Devices & Sharing. This is part of Google Play Services. Also available in the Play Store is the Cross-Devices Services app, which allows you to stream Chromebook apps that were introduced last year.

You can “Set up a device group” or phones and tablets signed into the same Google account. Features can be turned on and off individually. Android 11 or later is required, and the cross-device services feature is officially listed as “coming soon.”