Google Docs has an offline function that allows users to view and edit documents while offline.
The new Google Docs offline feature will be extended to Gmail, Calendar, Talk and spreadsheets.
By Gary Schmidt
Jul 21, 2008 15:54 PM GMT
Google Inc has enabled the offline function with its App products that allow users to view and edit documents while offline. Google is already looking to extend its functionality for remote and mobile users. "The design goal is to create a seamless experience, with or without an Internet connection," said Ken Norton, Google Docs product manager. The feature will soon be extended to other applications within the Google App family which includes Gmail, Calendar, Talk, spreadsheets and other programs. Google Docs' third component, an application to make slide presentations, will remain for now without offline access. Expectation for offline access in Docs and Apps had been building since Google introduced its Gears open-source technology in May of last year.
Until now, offline access has required that users export their Docs files to third-party file formats, like Microsoft Office. Google is addressing one of the biggest needs to Web-hosted applications by allowing Docs and Apps users to work offline. Google Docs, a free software suite available to anyone with a Google account, is aimed primarily at consumers, while Google Apps, designed mainly for workplace use, has been adopted mostly by small organizations.
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