Google rolls out new Drive desktop app to sync files and photos

Google is streamlining the way people back up and sync their files. The company is rolling out the new Drive desktop app on Mac and Windows.

Drive for desktop will replace the Backup and sync app (which is the Google Drive desktop app in 2018) as well as, which is aimed at business users. Since Google Workspace is now, it doesn’t make much sense to have separate sync methods.

The new app combines backup and sync and Drive File Stream, according to Google. You will be able to upload and sync your photos and videos to Google Photos as well as to Drive. There is also the option to sync external storage devices with the cloud. Additionally, you will be able to mirror Drive files to your computer, with file versions stored locally for faster access.

In addition to this, you can such as your office and your documents. There is also integration with Microsoft Outlook and Meet scheduling, and you will be able to see who is editing Microsoft Office files in real time.

Drive File Stream users won’t have much to do. Google has renamed the Drive desktop app, and it will benefit from Backup & Sync functionality in the coming months. Google will prompt Backup & Sync users to switch to Desktop Drive. Starting October 1, Backup and Sync, so you’ll need to make the transition to continue backing up your files with Drive.