So, a funny thing happened on the way to Google I/O, Google Docs started to look like Google Wave. See the video below to get an idea of what I mean:
So, it seems that Google is moving forward in getting Google Docs and Google Wave merged together! I assume this was released in Google Docs as that is now in production whereas Google Wave is still in development. I gather that the next version of Google Wave (probably to be unleashed at Google I/O 10) will highlight the integration of Google Docs.
Of course, the Google Wave’ish qualities now available in Google Docs was not the only thing they upgraded. As shown in the video, they also announced the following (copied from the Official Google Docs Blog):
A better document editor
We’ve brought the responsive, real-time editing experience you’ve come to expect from our spreadsheets over to documents, which means you can now see character-by-character changes as other collaborators make edits. We also added another popular feature from spreadsheets: sidebar chat, so you can discuss documents as you work on them with colleagues.The new technical foundation also helped us improve document formatting, which means better import/export fidelity, a revamped comment system, real margins and tab stops, and improved image layout within documents. These improvements have been highly requested, but previously impossible to create with the older documents editor on older browsers.
A faster spreadsheet editor
With the new spreadsheets editor, you’ll see significant speed and performance improvements — spreadsheets load faster, are more responsive and scroll more seamlessly. We’ve also added a host of often requested features, like a formula bar for cell editing, auto-complete, drag and drop columns, and simpler navigation between sheets. And as always, real-time collaboration in spreadsheets is easy with sidebar chat and the ability to see which cell each person is editing.A new collaborative drawing editor
In the year since we launched the Insert drawing tool, we’ve received many requests for the ability to collaborate on drawings and make them accessible directly from the docs list. The new standalone drawings editor lets you collaborate in real time on flow charts, designs, diagrams and other fun or business graphics. Copy these drawings into documents, spreadsheets and presentations using the web clipboard, or share and publish drawings just like other Google Docs.
I can’t tell you how excited I was to see Google Wave type functionality unveiled in Google Docs. This comes at a great time too. Microsoft is getting ready to up the ante with Office 2010 and venture into cloud computing with their Office Suite. Will Microsoft Web Apps Force Google’s Hand and hasten the pace of development in this area? I certainly hope so.
I am even more excited for Google I/O 10 now. I mentioned before I plan on attending and now am very excited in anticipation of big news.
What are your thoughts on the updates to Google Docs? Will this revitalize Google Wave? Are we on the cusp of an all out Office Suite war for our collaborative hearts and minds? Leave your thoughts and comments on the subject below.
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