Google Meet adds 12 AI makeup presets for real-time video calls

Google began rolling out an AI powered makeup feature for Meet on October 8, offering users on web and mobile the ability to apply real time, studio style makeup effects during video calls. The update, which expands on Meet's 2023 Portrait touchup tools, will be available to eligible Google Workspace and Google One paying subscribers as the rollout completes over roughly two weeks.

Google said the new option provides 12 presets, ranging from subtle, professional looks to more creative styles, and uses AI to map and adapt effects to a user's face so they remain aligned through movement. "The effects automatically adjust to facial movements like drinking coffee or touching your face to stay natural and consistent," the company said. The feature appears under the Appearance settings in Meet and can be enabled before or during a call. Preferences are saved for future meetings and the setting is turned off by default.

Technically, the system applies digital cosmetics such as foundation and lipstick in real time and uses adaptive mapping to track head turns and facial gestures so the effect does not shift when a user moves or temporarily occludes part of their face. Google said the...