Google to Retire Desktop Drive App for Mac and PC in March 2018; Introduces Drive File Stream

Google has made a significant announcement for G Suite users. By March 12th, 2018, Google will be phasing out its popular Google Drive desktop app for both Mac and PC. The tech giant is making way for its newest incarnation, Drive File Stream, an efficient and robust successor to the Drive app.

From October onwards, users of the existing app will start receiving notifications to transition to the new Drive File Stream app and system. This forewarning is part of Google’s plan to ensure a smooth transition, as it provides users adequate time to familiarize themselves with the new interface and features. This move is especially beneficial for IT administrators charged with managing these changes for their organizations.

As outlined in Google’s blog post, “Google Drive for Mac/PC is officially deprecated. It will no longer be supported starting on December 11th, 2017, and it will shut down completely on March 12th, 2018. We encourage you to use Drive File Stream. As an alternative to or in addition to installing Drive File Stream, you can upgrade to the new version of Drive for Mac/PC, called Backup and Sync.

Google’s Drive File Stream promises to be a major upgrade for companies requiring streamlined file management and synchronisation. For the average user, however, Google recommends utilising the Google Backup and Sync tool, which provides capable service and is readily available for download.

In conclusion, the shutting down of Google Drive’s desktop app may signal the end of an era, but it ushers in a new phase of efficiency and reliability with Google’s Drive File Stream. For all Drive app users, it’s time to explore the new horizons of this innovative tool designed to drive productivity and collaboration to new heights.