Google Drive is part of a suite of tools that make up the Google universe. It’s a free cloud storage service that’s bundled in with your Gmail and Google accounts as standard.
However, you can also download it as a standalone product from Google Play. However, you will still need a Google account as a minimum.
The beauty of Google Drive is the way it integrates with other Google tools such as Google Docs to give you a seamless workflow.
Apart from being a secure place to store files, its other strength is the ability to share your documents with others. Individual folders and files can be shared with others so they can view, edit or make comments.
Of all the cloud storage options available, Google Drive is unquestionably one of the best. It is versatile, and as it meshes with the rest of the Google ecosystem, Google Drive is excellent for productivity.
A safe, secure place for backups and files
Quick access to your most recent and essential documents
Search by name or content type
Set share permissions for folders and files
View files and folders offline
Push notifications about activity on shared files
Scan hard copy documents with your device’s camera
As standard, you get 15 GB of storage free. If you need more, you can take out a subscription as an in-app purchase. Prices start at $1.99 per month for 100 GB in the USA but can vary by country.
Unlike other free storage solutions, Google Drive gets its nose in front by not restricting any of the tools for those without a subscription.
It’s free
Simple to use
Integrates with other Google tools, including Google Workspace
Multi-language support
Excellent security
Supports third-party apps
All the features are available even on the free plan
15GB for free may not be enough
Privacy concerns
Lacks zero-knowledge encryption
You have access to Google Drive if you have a Google or Gmail account. In Android phones, you will find the Google Drive icon in the Google folder waiting for you. If not, it can be downloaded from Google Play.
There is also an iOS version at the App Store, so Apple fans needn’t miss out either. And it seems the iOS version rocks judging by the reviews and the 4.8 rating left by users. The latest version looks set to get more plaudits as it now lets iOS users save files from Chrome, Safari, and others.
iOS users need to be packing OS 11.0 or later on their iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch.
Android users are a little less taken with Google Drive, their sheer weight of numbers giving the app a surprisingly low 4.3 out of five.
Device requirements for Android vary by device.
Once installed, the Home page is where all your recent docs are displayed for easy access. Tap the three bars sitting at the top left to access the main menu to set up notifications, backups and customize your settings.
