New co-opetition in cloud wars: Edit Microsoft Office files directly in Google Drive
You can now edit Microsoft Office files directly in Google Drive thanks to a new update for the search giant’s cloud-based file management system. Simply click on “edit with Google docs”. Multiple users will be able to access and edit files from anywhere once saved in the cloud, keeping track of changes, and are also given the option of downloading files for offline access. If you don’t have the Microsoft Suite installed you have the choice to install the Chrome extension and convert the file into Google Docs, Slides or Sheets, or edit the file in its current format by clicking on an attachment card from the top of the file preview and open in the applicable web app.
Given that Office is among Microsoft’s most dominant products, used almost universally, it’s no surprise Google has come up with this integration addition to its cloud storage facility. An official public announcement by Google Drive said that the company realized the importance of user requirements to edit various file types when they arrive as attachments to emails, adding that it’s now “even easier for you to edit Office files.” They go on to say that the update allows you to, “import 15 new Office formats – including presentation show files (pps, ppsx), macro-enabled files, and template files – all with improved charts, images, and tables support!”
While the new addition to Google’s cloud isn’t a massive change, as one commenter wrote, small improvements like this will increase its utility rating. Microsoft already offers similar editing and revision features for Office Online, but not out of Gmail. The update by Google is another significant step in tying its services together and strengthening its own position in the cloud wars.
