Over the past few years, Google has released a number of optimization measures for various video and chat products. The company moved its video calling app Duo to Meet in 2022 because it seems to offer a one-stop solution for video conferencing.

But there was a time when two different Meet apps were available: the original Hangouts Meet app, renamed Meet, and a newer version with the code base and user base of Duo. This has led to some confusion among consumers who have parallel programs with similar names.

Now it looks like Google has decided to shut down the original Meet app completely. Users of the old (original) Meet app are now asked to uninstall the app when trying to join a video call. A pop-up asks you to download a newer version of Meet from the Google Play Store instead.

Now if you try to navigate to the meet.google.com video call link using the original Meet app, you’ll see the error message “You can no longer use this version of Meet.” The message encourages users to get the updated version of Meet available on the Play Store.

The original Meet app listing remains on the Play Store for now, but trying to open the app results in a close prompt. It looks like Google has quietly ended support and is redirecting users to its unified video platform.

Of course, it may take some time for every Meet user to update. So wait and wait for the new update to appear on your device.

Meanwhile, the company continues to develop the new Meet app with features like operator response, live calling, audio-only mode, live captioning, and more. By turning off parallel programs, Google avoids confusion and can devote all development energy to a single product.