The End of Google Drive for Mac/PC App: What's Next?

In the near future, you may start seeing notifications that the Google Drive for Mac/PC app will be discontinued. But fear not, as this change brings with it a more efficient and streamlined way to access your Google Drive files. Introducing Google Drive File Stream, a new desktop application that allows you to stream your Google Drive files directly from the cloud to your computer.

What's Changing?

Starting in October, users may see messages alerting them that the current Drive for Mac/PC app will no longer be supported. This is because Google Drive File Stream will soon become the recommended way to access and manage your Google Drive files on desktop devices. With this change, you'll still be able to access your files online as usual, but with added features that make it easier to organize and work with your content.

One of the biggest advantages of Google Drive File Stream is its ability to free up disk space and network bandwidth on your computer. By streaming your files directly from the cloud, you won't need to download them locally, making it ideal for users with limited storage capacity or slow internet connections.

Another significant feature is offline access. You can choose which files or folders you'd like to make available offline, allowing you to work on projects even when you're not connected to the internet. These cached files will automatically sync back to the cloud when you're online, ensuring that everyone has access to the latest version of your content.

What Does This Mean for You?

The deprecation of the Google Drive for Mac/PC app means that it will no longer be supported starting on December 11, 2017. The application will shut down completely on March 12, 2018. However, this change also marks the official launch of Google Drive File Stream, which is set to roll out to campus in early October.

To get started with Google Drive File Stream, simply look for it in your settings drop-down menu and enable it. From there, you'll be able to browse and organize your Google Drive files without downloading them locally. You'll also see your files seamlessly integrated into Mac OS Finder or Windows Explorer, including Team Drives.

The end of the Google Drive for Mac/PC app may seem like a change, but it's actually a step forward in terms of efficiency and functionality. With Google Drive File Stream, you can access your files more easily, free up disk space, and enjoy offline access to your content. Get ready to experience the power of Google Drive in a whole new way!

Google drive for desktop is coming soon