Google Workspace is the complete collection of Google products that were previously limited to paid business and education users. But from today, all Google account holders – that’s anyone with a Gmail or Googlemail account – can access it all, for nothing.
Previously known as G Suite, Workspace is designed to be not just a collection of all the programs that businesses need, but a fully integrated system that allows to collaborate on projects in real-time and work seamlessly across programs, from email and video to calendars and spreadsheets.
While free Google account holders already had access to the main programs, the ability to collaborate with friends, family or your own groups of people will give users the same abilities as was limited to business and education accounts.
- The Tesla Model S Plaid is a supercar, spaceship and games console, all in one
- iPad mini renders hint at smart keyboard and pencil for the next release
- Beats Studio Buds deliver noise cancellation, big battery life and a surprisingly low price
In addition to this access, Google Chat will be turning its Rooms into Spaces, with a new and easier user interface. Google Meet – its video chat functionality – also get a load more features, including a new Companion Mode to allow everyone access to its advanced features, such as polls, live captions, in-meeting chat and hand raising.
Moderation tools for hosts will allow them to limit the use of various functions by participants, as well as mute and unmute them. Hybrid meetings are now also catered for by allowing those invited to let the organizer know if they are attending in person or virtually.
For users wanting to use the Google Workspace for a small business, Workspace Individual is a new subscription service that adds useful features such as smart online booking, pro video meeting services, and personalized email marketing. This is due to cost $9.99 per month (discounted to $7.99 for the launch), though it’s not clear if this will be in addition to the current paid options or a replacement for one of them.
To access the new Google Workspace features you need to turn on Chat in Gmail.
Upgrade to smarter living
Get the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products straight to your inbox.
- On your computer, open Gmail.
- At the top right, click Settings > View all settings.
- At the top, click Chat and Meet.
- Next to “Chat,” to turn Chat on or off in Gmail, select Google Chat or Off.
- Click Save Changes.
As T3's Editor-in-Chief, Mat Gallagher has his finger on the pulse for the latest advances in technology. He has written about technology since 2003 and after stints in Beijing, Hong Kong and Chicago is now based in the UK. He’s a true lover of gadgets, but especially anything that involves cameras, Apple, electric cars, musical instruments or travel.
-
Google Pixel 9a tipped for a camera change you might find surprising
Details on the Google Pixel 9a camera might not be what you expect
By Chris Hall Published
-
Google Search gets an unusual update that could prove controversial
Google is stripping away a potentially useful tool, one that it says few people use.
By Max Freeman-Mills Published
-
Google’s Pixel Drop brings great free updates for your Pixel phone, new or old
Android 15 rolls out at last, and that means there's a neat Pixel Drop to go with it
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
Android phones getting something iPhone owners outside Europe can only dream of
Court ruling ramifications becoming clear
By Rik Henderson Published
-
Google TV Streamer’s best feature is coming to your Chromecast
Chromecast with Google TV can now deliver Google's smart home controls
By Carrie Marshall Published
-
Google could be tearing up its copy book for the Pixel 9a
The next affordable Pixel phone might launch sooner than expected
By Chris Hall Published
-
Your Philips, Sony or Panasonic smart TV gets some powerful new features for free
The Google TV Streamer isn't the only one having all the fun
By Rik Henderson Published
-
Gmail gets a great free update to help you organise your life
Never miss an important email again (as long as they are within four categories)
By Britta O'Boyle Published