Launched in late April 2012, Google Drive is a cloud-based storage venue for files of all different kinds. However, one priority goal developers were seeking to accomplish was the synchronization of any type of file across multiple devices. Furthermore, you can access files, pictures, or documents from any device, anywhere in the world.
Google innovated collaboration and sharing with anyone who had a Google account. Formerly, the original prototype had a limited amount of storage space available, however, that has increased dramatically. Subsequently, they offer the free download of an app and additionally increase available access. Finally, it is now possible to open and manipulate saved files, from a PC or handheld device.
Product Features
Setting up a Google Drive account is as simple as establishing a Gmail address. Furthermore, email accounts registered with Google, will automatically receive a set amount of storage space. Finally, with the ability to store data, Google also provides free online access to web-based applications.
Compose documents, build spreadsheets as design various presentations. For example, here are some important features for uploading files and documents in Drive.
- 15GB of free storage space is sufficient to hold thousands of midrange to large files
- Access files from anywhere in the world with an Internet connection
- Collaboration allows users to share and edit documents, spreadsheets and presentations with no need to exchange an email.
- Synchronization with files and documents that are similar to Microsoft Office programs.
- Forms and organizational questionnaires can be distributed to thousands of employees, completed.
- Share Business records and other documents between departments.
- View files with a download or app.
- Google Docs, Slides and Sheets do not count towards the 15GB of free storage space.
- File ownership provides the creator with the ability to set public visibility, format and edit capabilities.
- Integrate with external third-party web applications.
- Access all standard file formats directly from Drive.
- Image files (.JPEG, .PNG, .GIF, TIFF, .BMP. WEBP)
- Video files (.WEBM, MPEG4, .3GPP, .MOV, .AVI, .MPEG, MPEGPS, .WMV, .FLV, .OGG)
- Audio formats (.MP3, .M4A, .WAV, .OGG)
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Adobe (PDF, PhotoShop, Illustrator)
The Bottom Line
File storage has evolved over the years from discs to zip drives. With this in mind, one obstacle in file storage was the inability to retrieve files individually, or a group. However, Without a way to save the same document in the same format, collaboration was essentially impossible.
Google Drive addresses each of these problems. Additionally, users can take advantage of the free download storage size. Ultimately, safely keep important documents, images, videos, on any computer.
