Google makes it easy to access all the features of its online suite of tools Google Workspace (formerly G Suite).
Google Workspace
Previously known as G Suite, the Google Workspace suite of tools is now available to everyone with a Google account. In the past, the suite’s advanced features were only available to members with a corporate profile.
The major update affects approximately three billion users who will be able to access a host of additional features on Gmail, Chat, Calendar, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Meet and many other services included in Google Workspace.
Google’s vision is simple: “Provide everyone with a single, integrated communication and collaboration solution through Google Workspace. No more market segmentation.
In addition to democratizing its suite of tools, the digital giant is planning many adjustments to meet the new paradigm of the hybrid work world.
The first example comes from Google Chat, whose rooms will be renamed into spaces. The chat tool is integrated with Gmail, allowing to chat by private messaging or in dedicated spaces with ease.
The undeclared goal of Google Chat is probably to overshadow popular software like Discord and Slack. It must be said that Google invests a lot of resources to this effect: additional emojis, presence indicators, personalized statuses, reactions, foldable view, intelligent moderation, the features are numerous. Google Chat’s greatest asset is certainly its integration into a service that already has several million active users.
Google Meet is another example of an evolving service. A new “companion mode” provides access to interactive features for all participants, no matter where they are. Examples include: polls, meeting discussions, raising a hand to ask a question, Q&A sessions, etc.
By September 2021, the Google Workspace suite of tools plans to enable such features on all Google Meet-enabled devices, from a Series One to the Nest Hub Max. Starting next month, Google Meet meetings will be enhanced with better moderation controls. For example, a host will be able to block the meeting chat feature or, for example, mute a participant.
Our perspective
The Google Workspace suite of tools offers a range of interesting features that were limited by a two-tier system. The change in direction announced by Google reflects a changing reality where needs are rapidly evolving.
As was the case with our shift to telecommuting, Google wants to simplify the work of its users. A company’s ability to adapt is a decisive factor when it comes to assessing its relevance in the marketplace. This news should make anyone in the technology industry happy, as they will be able to take advantage of incredible features without having to use business accounts.
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