Highlights
- New formatting sidebar introduced in Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets for Android tablets.
- Sidebar designed according to Material Design 3 guidelines for a cohesive user interface.
- Formatting sidebar simplifies editing with accessible tools and minimal taps.
- Update rollout started, with full availability expected by early March.
Google’s efforts to refine and enhance its Workspace suite have led to a significant update for Android tablet users.
The tech giant is introducing a new formatting sidebar to its Docs, Slides, and Sheets apps, aiming to streamline the user interface and improve document editing on larger screens.
This update aligns with Google’s Material Design 3 guidelines, which the company says will ensure a cohesive and intuitive design across the board.
Introducing the Formatting Sidebar
The update brings a formatting sidebar which is a feature designed to simplify the editing process for users.
Activated by tapping the Format button located near the toolbar’s right side, this sidebar brings commonly used formatting tools to the forefront, making them more accessible than ever.
While the main toolbar retains essential functions such as undo and redo actions, the sidebar offers a more organized approach to document formatting.
Benefits of the New Sidebar
The introduction of the sidebar addresses the need for a more efficient editing workflow on Android tablets.
By consolidating formatting options into a single, easily navigable panel, users can adjust page breaks, line spacing, colors, tables, and more with minimal effort.
Availability and Further Enhancements
Google has announced that this formatting sidebar will be accessible to all Workspace users, including those with personal Google accounts.
The rollout began over the weekend, with full availability expected by early March.
Users can anticipate a uniform experience across Docs, Slides, and Sheets, although Google has yet to showcase the sidebar’s implementation in Slides and Sheets specifically.
In addition to the sidebar update, Google has also improved comment management within the web versions of Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
FAQs
What is the new update for Google Workspace apps on Android tablets?
Google has introduced a formatting sidebar in its Workspace apps—Docs, Slides, and Sheets—on Android tablets, aiming to enhance the editing experience with easily accessible formatting tools.
How do I access the new formatting sidebar in Google Workspace apps?
You can activate the new formatting sidebar by tapping the Format button, located near the right side of the app’s toolbar. This provides quick access to commonly used formatting options.
Will the formatting sidebar be available to all users?
Yes, the new formatting sidebar feature is being rolled out to all Workspace users, including those with personal Google accounts. The feature began rolling out over the weekend, with expected full availability by early March.
Does the new sidebar affect the main toolbar functions?
No, the main toolbar will still retain essential functions like undo and redo actions. The sidebar is an addition that offers a more organized and efficient way to access formatting tools without cluttering the toolbar.
Are there any other recent updates to Google Workspace apps?
In addition to the formatting sidebar, Google has also updated the web versions of Docs, Slides, and Sheets to allow users to manage comments more efficiently, part of ongoing efforts to enhance the Workspace suite.
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