Not Just Gemini and Veo 3—Google Beam Is Finally Here

At Google I/O 2025, while most eyes were glued to the dazzling AI applications like Gemini and Veo, I found myself captivated by a lesser-known project: Google Beam, a breakthrough in 3D video technology.

What is Google Beam?

So, what exactly is Google Beam? In simple terms, it's a 3D video platform that lets you feel like someone is "sitting right in front of you" without needing any wearable devices, enhancing the remote communication experience.

This technology evolved from Project Starline, which first appeared in 2021 as a long-term research project by Google. The goal wasn't to create a virtual world but to redefine what it means to "meet" someone, making remote communication as natural as face-to-face conversation, a significant leap in video conferencing technology.

To achieve this presence, the initial Starline system used multiple depth-sensing cameras to construct real-time 3D models of people. It then employed light field display technology to project these images onto a special screen, making it seem like the two parties were sitting across from each other through a glass window. You wouldn't just see the other person's face; you'd feel their gaze, expressions, movements, and even the twitch of an eyebrow, enhancing the realism of virtual meetings.

However, the early prototypes of Project Starline were massive and required complex hardware setups that could fill an entire room, making it impractical for most homes and even many office spaces, limiting its initial adoption.

From Project Starline to Google Beam: AI-Powered Transformation

The journey from Project Starline to the now officially named Google Beam involved significant improvements. First, AI was introduced (yes, AI is still the star). Google developed a new AI video model that can instantly infer 3D information from standard 2D video streams, drastically reducing the need for multiple cameras and complex hardware setups. Additionally, Google Beam incorporates AI-powered real-time voice translation, preserving tone, expressions, and speech speed, thus expanding the possibilities for cross-language communication, a crucial feature for global enterprises.

Next, integration with Google Cloud has made Google Beam a truly deployable enterprise solution. It boasts enterprise-level stability and system compatibility and has already begun collaborations with companies like Zoom and Deloitte, marking its entry into the business communication market.

Google I/O 2025 will feature Gemini, Veo 3, and the finally confirmed Google Beam 3D video platform.

Google Beam is expected to officially launch in 2025, developed in collaboration with HP, and will first be introduced into corporate spaces like Salesforce and Duolingo. Pricing is yet to be announced. The new device significantly downsizes the original design, featuring a large display with light field effects and a main unit about the size of a DVD player, making it more accessible for various environments.

Do We Still Need Google Beam in a Post-Pandemic World?

Starline was born during the pandemic, a time when remote communication tools were heavily relied upon but also quickly revealed their limitations. Video conferencing solved the distance issue but also brought about undeniable fatigue, such as unfocused eye contact, audio delays, and weakened non-verbal signals, making interactions stiff and unnatural. Google's intention was clear: to enhance the realism and efficiency of remote conversations through technology, addressing these common issues.

But in 2025, with the pandemic behind us and a reduced demand for online meetings, what role does Google Beam play?

From the current demonstrations, Google Beam's focus remains on enterprise applications. Whether it's improving the efficiency of remote meetings, enhancing real-time team interactions, or integrating with tools like Google Meet and Zoom, the goal is clear: to make business communication smoother and closer to the experience of face-to-face meetings, a vital need for modern businesses.

However, from a technical perspective, its potential applications could extend beyond that. Everyday video calls between distant partners, holiday gatherings for international families, or even fan meet-and-greets in social or entertainment settings could be the next step for this type of 3D communication platform. After all, compared to current one-way live streams or flat video calls, being able to see each other's expressions and movements like in real life would certainly enhance the sense of participation. Of course, it all depends on how Google plans to advance this, and there's a more practical issue: the price. No matter how powerful the features or how great the experience, if the price is too high, it will remain just a "cool demo."