Google is upgrading Workspace, its suite of cloud-based productiveness instruments, with new AI capabilities.
The suite is gaining Workspace Flows, a device designed to automate multi-step processes reminiscent of updating spreadsheets and digging via paperwork for data. Flows can faucet Gems, Google’s model of customized AI-powered chatbots, to deal with specialised duties, and it may additionally combine with apps like Google Drive to retrieve information.
“Merely describe what you want in plain language, and Workspace Flows will design and construct subtle, logic-driven flows,” Yulie Kwon Kim, VP of product for Google Workspace, wrote in a weblog publish offered to TechCrunch. “We’re additionally working with companions to attach Workspace Flows to different third-party instruments you depend on, enabling it to help workflows past Workspace.”
The enhancements come as Google appears to make Workspace, which competes with platforms reminiscent of Microsoft 365, an AI-first expertise. The search big first started including generative AI performance to Workspace in March 2023, and lately eradicated extra charges for sure AI workspace options — although it did enhance the value of Workspace plans.
Elsewhere in Workspace, Google Docs will quickly get the flexibility to transform drafts into podcast-style overviews, à la NotebookLM’s Audio Overviews, and revise snippets of copy. An upcoming function referred to as “Assist me refine” will supply ideas on methods to strengthen arguments, enhance construction, and make factors clearer, stated Kim.
In Google Sheets, a brand new function set to reach later this 12 months, “Assist me analyze,” will present steerage, highlight developments, and assist create interactive charts. In Google Meet, a device referred to as “Take notes for me” can summarize and recap particular matters from video calls. Google Chat customers will be capable to invoke Google’s Gemini chatbot by typing “@gemini” in any dialog.
Google Vids, Google’s AI-powered video creation app for work, will quickly be capable to generate video clips utilizing Google’s Veo 2 mannequin, which Google is integrating with the app.
Lastly, Google stated it’s introducing new information residency controls that may enable prospects to limit the place their information is processed to assist adjust to laws such because the EU’s GDPR.