Tag: Google Drive

  • Google Ends Free Service Youve Had Since 2013

    Google Ends Free Service Youve Had Since 2013

    Key Takeaway

    – Google is testing 5 GB default storage for some new Gmail accounts, down from the traditional 15 GB.
    – The change aims to preserve service quality and push users toward stronger security and data recovery practices, while curbing multi-account storage abuse.
    – Existing accounts are unaffected during the test; the rollout could be regional or someday global depending on results.
    – The move aligns with comparable offerings from others (e.g., Microsoft) and follows subtle shifts in Google’s storage messaging.

    For nearly two decades, signing up for a Google account has meant walking away with 15 gigs of free cloud storage. That number, which was shared across Gmail, Drive, and Photos, has been one of the more reliable constants in consumer tech over the years. It may not stay that way for much longer.

    Update on storage policy

    Google has confirmed it is currently testing a reduced storage allocation for newly created Gmail accounts in certain regions, where some users will receive just 5 GB by default instead of the standard 15 GB. The test was first flagged by user reports on Reddit before Google acknowledged the experiment directly to Android Authority. The company added that it is evaluating the new policy to maintain service quality — at the same time, it will also push users toward better account security and data recovery practices.

    Regions and rollout

    As of writing, Google has not disclosed which regions are part of the trial. However, early reports hint that the rollout has been concentrated in parts of Africa. Existing accounts are unaffected for now.

    Background to the change

    This move does appear to be at least partly geared towards curbing the practice of creating multiple accounts to stack free storage. If that wasn’t clear already, Google’s own support page has been quietly updated since February to describe storage as up to 15GB. It’s not hard to discern that the company had been laying the groundwork for this change for some time.

    Why it matters

    Whether the 5 GB stays regional or eventually becomes the global default for new sign-ups will depend on how the test plays out. For reference, other providers like Microsoft Outlook also bundle 5 GB of free storage with new accounts.

     

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  • Convert PDFs to Audio Summaries with NotebookLM on Google Drive

    Convert PDFs to Audio Summaries with NotebookLM on Google Drive

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is launching a feature called “Audio Overviews” that converts lengthy documents in Google Drive into short audio clips using Gemini AI.
    2. Users can access this feature by clicking the “Audio Overview” button when viewing a PDF in their web browser, generating audio files that last between two to ten minutes.
    3. The audio clips are stored in a new “Audio Overviews” folder in Google Drive, and users receive email notifications when they are ready.
    4. The feature is designed for multitasking, allowing users to listen to important information while commuting or doing other tasks.
    5. Currently, “Audio Overviews” is only available to paying Google Workspace users and supports PDFs in English only.

    We all have those documents stored in Google Drive: the extensive industry report, the long meeting notes, or the complicated contract that you have been meaning to read. Using ChatGPT or Gemini to generate a summary might sound like a good plan. But what if you could convert these files into podcast-like audio clips? That’s precisely what Google’s new Gemini AI experiment is aiming to achieve.

    New Feature Introduction

    Google is introducing “Audio Overviews” directly within Google Drive, a fresh feature powered by Gemini that simplifies the process of understanding lengthy PDFs and documents on the go by transforming them into short audio clips.

    The tool, which utilizes technology from Google’s well-liked research application NotebookLM, is quite straightforward. When you open a PDF in your web browser, a new “Audio Overview” button will appear in the upper toolbar. Clicking this button opens the Gemini side panel, and after a few moments of processing, you’ll receive a short audio file lasting from two to ten minutes.

    Accessing Your Audio Files

    This audio file is automatically stored in a new folder labeled “Audio Overviews” in your Drive. You’ll even receive an email notification once it’s ready, allowing you to access it from either your smartphone or your computer.

    Google emphasizes the importance of multitasking with this feature. The company claims it will enable you to “absorb vital information” while you’re commuting, exercising, or completing household tasks.

    Limitations of the Feature

    Nonetheless, this new AI feature may not be suitable for everyone. Currently, it is only accessible to paying Google Workspace users — specifically those on Business Standard/Plus, Enterprise Standard/Plus — and subscribers to the Google One AI Pro plan. At its launch, it only supports PDFs in English.

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  • ChatGPT’s New Feature Aims to Compete with Google

    ChatGPT’s New Feature Aims to Compete with Google

    Key Takeaways

    1. ChatGPT now integrates with Google Drive and other cloud platforms, allowing personalized and precise responses by accessing files directly.
    2. The software is compatible with SharePoint, Dropbox, Box, and OneDrive, enabling summarization and data extraction from various document types.
    3. OpenAI emphasizes security, ensuring only authorized users can access documents to maintain data protection.
    4. ChatGPT serves as a comprehensive work companion, offering features like audio transcription and tailored report generation, enhancing productivity.
    5. The user base is rapidly growing, with 3 million paying users as of October 2023, indicating strong demand for its professional tools.

    OpenAI has recently unveiled an exciting new feature that could impact its rivals significantly, announcing the integration of ChatGPT with Google Drive. This capability allows the AI to access files saved in the cloud, aiming to provide responses that are more personalized and precise.

    Compatibility with Multiple Platforms

    This software isn’t limited to Google Drive; it can also connect with SharePoint, Dropbox, Box, and OneDrive. This means you can instruct ChatGPT to summarize documents, whether they’re text or images, or pull data from an Excel spreadsheet. The AI will conduct an analysis and deliver the key information without you needing to dig through the files yourself.

    Focus on Security

    Nevertheless, OpenAI stressed a crucial aspect. Only individuals authorized by the organization can access documents, thus maintaining corporate structures and ensuring data security.

    A New Work Companion

    With this new functionality, ChatGPT could become your ultimate work companion, especially since it already has features for recording and transcribing audio discussions. This can really save you time.

    Additionally, it’s important to mention that this AI can create tailored reports based on the intended audience. These advancements position it squarely against Google Gemini and Microsoft 365, which already offer similar tools in their office suites.

    Rapid Growth in User Base

    Moreover, ChatGPT is experiencing tremendous growth among businesses, boasting 3 million paying users across its Enterprise, Team, and Education plans, a rise from 2 million in February 2025. There are also other options like ChatGPT Team, which cater to various needs and target organizations that don’t have enough users to qualify for the Enterprise plan.

    With these innovative features, OpenAI is striving to establish itself as a vital professional tool on multiple levels. Its role in this landscape is solidifying over time, and it could potentially surpass its competitors soon.

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  • Four Home Assistant 2025.2 Patch Releases Now Available

    Four Home Assistant 2025.2 Patch Releases Now Available

    Key Takeaways

    1. Home Assistant has released four patch updates since version 2025.2 launched earlier this month.
    2. The latest patch, 2025.2.4, fixes a frontend issue and addresses a problem with the Tuya Smart Thermostat Radiator Valve.
    3. The backup system now includes resumable uploads for Google Drive and individual metadata files for OneDrive.
    4. New features include the “EMERGENCY_HEAT” state for the EcoNet Smart Thermostat and bug fixes for LG webOS TV and Govee products.
    5. Home Assistant plans to continue releasing updates weekly, exceeding initial expectations.

    Home Assistant has rolled out four patch updates since the introduction of version 2025.2 earlier this month. This update enhances the backup system that was refreshed in January, including better integrations with Google Drive and OneDrive.

    Latest Patch Release Details

    The most recent patch, 2025.2.4, was released on February 14th, featuring a small update for the frontend and addressing a problem related to the Tuya Smart Thermostat Radiator Valve (TRV). The prior patch, 2025.2.3, introduced a new state called “EMERGENCY_HEAT” for the EcoNet Smart Thermostat. Earlier updates have also ensured that the current temperature isn’t used for the External Temperature in the Shelly BLU TRV. Furthermore, they have fixed issues that could lead to crashes if a Telegram message fails to generate an ID.

    Backup System Enhancements

    In connection with the broader improvements to the backup system, users can now take advantage of resumable uploads for Google Drive and utilize individual metadata files for OneDrive. Additionally, there are a few fixes for bugs affecting LG webOS TV and updates related to Govee and Google Nest smart home gadgets.

    Update Frequency

    Up to now, the number of patch updates for Home Assistant 2025.2 has exceeded expectations; the company plans to release one per week. You can find the complete release notes for each of these updates on the Home Assistant blog.

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  • Home Assistant 2025.2: New Backup and Voice Features Added

    Home Assistant 2025.2: New Backup and Voice Features Added

    The Home Assistant 2025.2 software is now out for users. This February update marks the second significant release of the open-source home automation platform this year. It enhances the updated backup system introduced last month and incorporates additional features for voice commands.

    Improved Backup System

    Following a warm reception for the January update to the backup system, Home Assistant has made further adjustments based on user input. Now, users can backup their data directly to Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive. Additionally, there’s a new feature that lets you control encryption settings for specific locations, along with the ability to schedule your backup times to fit your needs.

    Voice Assistant Enhancements

    New functionalities for Voice, the company’s private voice assistant, have been introduced. For instance, you can now call your traditional phone and leave a voice message. Users can also send messages to all voice assistants in their home, perfect for calling everyone to dinner. Furthermore, voice commands can now adjust the temperature on your smart thermostat. The company has mentioned a YouTube livestream focused on Voice, happening on February 12th.

    Additional Integrations and Support

    Alongside the Google Drive and OneDrive integrations, there are new links to the Homee smart home system and igloohome smart locks. Support has also been added for the Shelly BLU TRV smart thermostatic radiator head and TP-Link vacuums. Bang & Olufsen users can now create triggers based on physical button presses on their devices. To see the complete release notes for Home Assistant 2025.2, visit its blog, and for the detailed changelog, check out a separate webpage.

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  • WhatsApp backups will consume Google Drive storage starting 2024

    WhatsApp backups will consume Google Drive storage starting 2024

    Android users will soon see a change in how WhatsApp backups are stored in Google Drive. The company recently announced updated terms that will no longer exempt WhatsApp data from consuming storage space. Although no specific date has been set, users on the app’s beta version are already experiencing this change. This means that backups, including chat history, images, and videos, will now count towards your Google Drive storage quota, regardless of whether you have a free or paid plan.

    WhatsApp Backups Transition to Google Drive Storage

    WhatsApp’s parent company, Meta, confirmed that this change will apply to all Android users in the first half of 2024. To ensure users are aware of this transition, a 30-day notification will be displayed as a banner in the app’s Chat Backup settings prior to the change taking effect.

    For those concerned about their chat history taking up valuable space in their Google Drive, there are alternative options available to manage storage:

    Direct Transfer

    One option is to utilize the built-in WhatsApp Chat Transfer tool, which allows for seamless migration of data to a new device. This process requires both phones to be connected to the same Wi-Fi network, but an internet connection is not necessary. By using this feature, you can transfer your data without relying on Google Drive storage.

    Text-Only Backups

    Another space-saving approach is to opt for text-only backups. This means that only text messages will be backed up, excluding media files such as images and videos. By choosing this option, you can significantly reduce the amount of storage space required for your WhatsApp backups.

    Aligning Android with iPhone Users

    This policy shift brings Android users in line with iPhone users, who have always had their WhatsApp backups count towards their iCloud storage. It serves as a reminder for all users to be mindful of their cloud storage usage, especially as free plans are becoming more limited in size.

    Prepare for the New Landscape

    Android users should plan ahead and consider their options for managing WhatsApp backups in Google Drive. Whether it’s transferring chats, reducing the size of media files, or switching to text-only backups, it’s important to be prepared for the changes that will soon take place in WhatsApp’s Google Drive storage. Stay tuned for the 30-day notification and make the necessary adjustments to ensure your data is stored efficiently.

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  • Google is investigating the loss of data from certain Google Drive users since May.

    Google is investigating the loss of data from certain Google Drive users since May.

    Google Drive Users Report Data Disappearance Issue on Desktop Platforms

    Google Drive users accessing the service on desktop platforms have reported a concerning issue where a portion of their data from recent months is mysteriously disappearing. This issue has affected a limited subset of users utilizing specific versions of the Google Drive desktop app (versions 84.0.0.0 through 84.0.4.0). The problem came to light when a user shared their distressing experience of losing all Google Drive data dating back to May.

    Distressed Users Seek Help

    The issue has drawn attention from affected users on a Google community support thread, with 192 users indicating they have experienced similar problems. Reports suggest that the missing files include documents, photos, and videos. Some affected users sought help from Google’s support team, but recovery attempts were reportedly unsuccessful.

    Actions to Avoid

    Google has since advised users against certain actions, including clicking “disconnect account” in Google Drive for desktop and deleting or relocating the app data folder. Saitej, a Google Drive team member, issued a warning within the support thread, emphasizing the importance of avoiding specific actions that could potentially worsen the situation. Users are cautioned against disconnecting their accounts and advised not to delete or move the app data folder, typically located in specific directories on Windows and macOS systems.

    Precautionary Measures

    As a precautionary measure, Saitej recommended users create a backup copy of the app folder in a separate location. The investigation by Google into this data loss is ongoing, and affected users are urged to follow Google’s official support channels for updates and assistance. The company is actively working to resolve the issue and prevent further instances of data loss for users accessing Google Drive on desktop platforms.

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  • Enhanced Experience for Android Foldables and Tablets with Google Drive’s Latest Update

    Enhanced Experience for Android Foldables and Tablets with Google Drive’s Latest Update

    Google Drive Update Enhances Experience for Android Foldable and Tablet Users

    Google Drive has recently released an update that brings significant improvements to the experience of Android foldable and tablet users. This update is a crucial step forward in enhancing the Google Workspace experience for users with larger-screen devices. By aligning the tablet interface of Google Drive with its web version, this update makes it easier for users to manage their files and navigate the app. Let’s take a closer look at the contents of this update.

    Refreshed Folder Navigation System

    One of the key features introduced in this update is a refreshed and user-friendly folder navigation system. With this new system, users can easily understand their location within Google Drive and navigate through complex folder structures effortlessly. Furthermore, the update provides detailed file information such as the last modification date and the storage space occupied by each file. This added information gives users a better understanding of their files and helps them manage their storage effectively.

    Adherence to Material Design 3 Guidelines

    Another important aspect of this update is its adherence to Google’s Material Design 3 guidelines. By incorporating these design principles, Google Drive offers a visually cohesive and aesthetically pleasing experience. Attention to design details enhances the overall user interaction with the app, making it more intuitive and enjoyable to use.

    Availability and Accessibility

    The update is already available to Rapid Release domains, and it will be accessible to Scheduled Release domains starting from November 27. This means that all Google Workspace customers and those with personal Google Accounts will be able to benefit from these enhancements. Google aims to ensure that users across various domains and account types can take advantage of the improved Google Drive experience.

    Adapting to Changing User Needs

    This update signifies more than just functional improvements; it reflects Google’s recognition of the diverse ways people access digital content today. By enhancing the experience on foldables and tablets, Google is adapting to the changing landscape of digital interaction in both personal and professional settings. With the increasing popularity of larger-screen devices, it is essential for productivity tools like Google Drive to optimize their interfaces to meet the needs of users on these devices.

    In conclusion, the recent update to Google Drive brings significant enhancements for Android foldable and tablet users. With a refreshed folder navigation system, adherence to Material Design 3 guidelines, and improved availability and accessibility, Google Drive is now even more user-friendly and visually appealing. This update demonstrates Google’s commitment to adapting to the evolving ways people interact with digital content.

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