Meeting participants can now chat from Google Calendar event

Google is adding an option that makes it easy to chat with meeting attendees directly from Google Calendar. Within the Calendar event on the web or mobile, you’ll see a Chat icon next to the guest list — simply select this icon to create a group chat containing all event participants. Please note that this only applies to participants within your organization, external attendees are not included in the chat group. This makes it simple to chat with guests before, during, or after any meeting.

Previously, the main way to communicate with Calendar event attendees was via email. However, there are times when Chat may be preferred to email for communication. For example, sending a message that you’re running late, or sharing resources with attendees not long before the meeting starts. Now, the email and chat options are side by side on the calendar event. This can help you quickly choose whichever form of communication you prefer, and start conversations with just a few taps. When combined with Chat suggestions, it’s always easy to communicate with event participants via chat.

This feature will be on by default for all users with Chat and Calendar turned on. It is available to all Google Workspace customers, as well as G Suite Basic and Business customers.