Proton Just Released a More Private Version of Google Docs
Google Docs has been one of the popular online collaboration options for many years. It’s integrated into Google Drive, has a rich set of features, and makes it easy to collaborate with others. But Proton is once again making its way into Google territory with a new privacy-focused alternative thanks to today’s launch of Docs on Proton Drive.
According to the launch announcement , “Documents in Proton Drive” will allow users to take full advantage of many of the same collaboration features that make Google Docs so appealing, while offering enhanced privacy features, including end-to-end encryption for all your documents. This should make Documents in Proton Drive a useful option for those who work with more sensitive information, both at work and at home.
Key features available in Documents in Proton Drive include rich text editing with the ability to create and edit documents using a variety of formatting options, and file compatibility with multiple formats, including Microsoft .docx. In other words, it should integrate easily with any work you’re already doing in other programs. Proton also says you’ll be able to add comments, reply to them, and even mark them as solved to help create a collaborative environment.
Documents in Proton Drive will also support the ability to embed images and invite various collaborators, although they will require at least a free Proton account so the company can ensure it maintains a secure environment. Plus, you’ll be able to see who’s viewing a document, as well as where they’re working, using collaboration cursors similar to those found in Google Docs.
The launch of Docs on Proton Drive follows Proton’s recent acquisition of Standard Notes , an encrypted note-taking app. The company considers this a major milestone in the ongoing development of the Proton ecosystem and says that at launch, Docs will offer full support for markdown, code blocks, checklists and more.
All of these features are already present in Google Docs, which is what makes it such an attractive option for employees. By offering such a high level of parity at launch, Proton is ensuring Docs in Proton Drive is off to a good start, ensuring that users looking to ditch Google Docs won’t lose any of the essential features they already rely on.