Google 3D calls coming in 2025

Google originally introduced the concept of 3D video conferencing calls via a project codenamed ‘Project Starline’, in 2021, at the Google I/O conference.

Now, three years later it’s announced that it will be available for consumer use as early as next year.

What is Project Starline?

Project Starline uses 3D imaging, AI, and special cameras and screens to create 3D images of remote people, on video calls, so it looks and feels like they’re in the room with you, having a natural face-to-face conversation.

Together with HP–known for its computing experience–Microsoft has created this video calling technology that allows users to talk, gesture, and maintain eye contact as if they were physically present, sitting opposite you.

After months of testing and private technical reviews, Google says that the immersive 3D experience reduces video meeting fatigue by 31%, resulting in a 12% faster reaction time on general day-to-day tasks.

They claim it also improves attentiveness, memory recall, collaboration, and presence in meetings, with the 3D imaging allowing people to see things like life-like gestures and subtle eye contact cues, making communication more natural.

How will they roll Project Starline out?

Microsoft and HP plan to start rolling this 3D video conference technology out for commercial use sometime in 2025, with the idea of integrating it with popular video call platforms, like Zoom and Google Meet, across multiple industries.

Although the benefits of this 3D video call technology are clear (for both work and personal use), questions are being raised about how affordable and accessible this will be for the masses.

Only time will tell, as Google is expected to reveal more details, later this year.