If you’re one to keep up with Android news, you’ll know that Google Duo, the video call app, has undergone many updates. Several versions ago, the app briefly allowed users to share their screens, but the experience was glitchy and was then quickly discontinued. Now at version 50.1, Duo has done away with screen share altogether.
We will let you know if the screen share option does return to Duo in the future but for now, check out these alternatives. We also have an article on how to share your Android screen to your TV.
Join.me
Join.me is a desktop and mobile app that’s intended for professional use, but is just as good if you’re teaching your mom how to send pictures via Whatsapp. The app is free and available on Google Play and on Amazon, though there are premium options as well. You will need to create an account to use join.me.
Once this is set up, non-premium users can get a one-time use personal link code that launches a new meeting. The screen share does not start immediately however. You must click on the screen share icon (placed bottom right) which prompts a notification that your entire screen will be shared. If you want to stop sharing, tap the icon with the join.me logo on the bottom right.
Zoom.us
Zoom is another screen sharing option for mobile (iOS too) and desktop use (Window, Mac OS, and Linux). It’s available to download from Google Play Store.
Zoom, again, is geared towards serving teams who need to collaborate remotely. Nonetheless, the app has a tonne of features you could make use of if you just need a quick alternative to share your screen. Note though that it does not share audio.
There are premium plans for Zoom as well, if you are interested in more advanced features or would like to increase the number of hosts allowed in the call. Get Zoom for Android here.
Mimicr
Mimicr is a newcomer to the screen-sharing market for Android. The app lets you make voice calls while sharing your screen. It’s a straight-forward solution if you’re just looking to cast one-on-one with a friend or contact. Similar to calling apps like WhatsApp, you will need to register with your phone number and allow the app to access your contacts list.
Once you start a call, the cast starts right away but you do have the option to pause. You can switch the presenter and react with emojis as well, similar to Facebook Live. Mimicr doesn’t yet stream the audio of what you share, which means you can’t stream a YouTube video with audio at the moment. However, the app’s developers are currently looking into ways to switch between the voice call and the content’s audio for future updates, so watch this space.
The app is free to download from the Google Play Store.
Author: Somrata Sarkar, Contributor
Previously a Tech Advisor Senior Staff Writer, Somrata researches and writes about the best tech deals to help readers make smart, informed buying decisions. She's an expert on accessories and also reviews laptops, phones, audio and other devices.