One of the most significant shifts brought by the 2020 pandemic was the transition to remote work. To meet the growing demand for online collaborative tools, Google Suite (or G Suite) underwent a major transformation. As of 2024, over 14.5 million websites utilize Google Workspace, nearly three times more than the 5.3 million domains using Microsoft 365.
This widespread adoption underscores its effectiveness in meeting diverse business needs.
With advanced features like smart AI suggestions, real-time collaboration and enhanced security, Google Workspace is more than just a rebrand. It’s a complete upgrade designed to help your team work smarter, not harder.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- What’s new in Google Workspace benefits
- Google Workspace updates
- Why Bluehost’s Google Workspace is ideal for you
- New features to look out for
Introduction to Google Workspace
Google Workspace, formerly known as G Suite, is Google’s suite of online productivity tools, including Gmail, Docs, Drive and Meet. It offers a unified platform for creating, communicating and collaborating professionally.
It has been a few years since Google’s work-related apps became G Suite. Today, what was once known as the G Suite update is called Google Workspace.
Google Workspace is Google’s set of online productivity tools, which include Gmail, Docs, Drive and Meet. It has everything you need in one place to create, communicate and collaborate for work.
Like G Suite, Google Workspace differs from Google’s free apps because it provides business services like creating custom email addresses, increased Gmail and Google Drive storage, customer support, additional security features and administrative control over accounts.
As of December 2023, Google Workspace has over 3 billion users, with over 8 million paying customers. This significant growth underscores its effectiveness in meeting diverse business needs.
Google Workspace Apps
- Gmail: Email
- Calendar: Scheduling
- Meet (formerly Hangouts): Group video and audio conferencing
- Chat and Rooms (and soon, Spaces): Team messaging
- Drive: Cloud storage
- Docs: Collaborative word processor
- Sheets: Collaborative spreadsheets
- Slides: Collaborative presentations
- Forms: Customizable forms and surveys
- Keep: Collaborative Note-taking
- Site: Website creation
- Currents (formerly Google+): Internal communication
On top of those applications, the G Suite update offers additional services.
Additional services
These are not primary Google Workspace apps, but you may have access to them depending on the plan you have. They are the following:
- Groups and Groups for Business: Email lists and access management
- Cloud Search: Search functionality within Google Workspace
- Vault: Data retention and eDiscovery
- Jamboard: Collective visual board
- Voice: Virtual phone system
- Apps Script: Business process automation
- AppSheet: No-code application development
- Classroom: Learning management system
- Domains: Starting Domain registration specific to Google Workspace
But how much do these applications and additional services cost?
Plans and pricing
Although you can access Google Workspace for free, you will have to pay for plans if you want to access additional features.
Here are the plans that are currently available:
Business plan
The Business plans similar to G Suite’s offerings, with the addition of the Business Plus plan. Here are the available options:
- Business starter: At $6/user/month, users get access to:
- Custom and secure business email
- Video meetings for up to 100 participants
- 30GB cloud storage per user
- Business standard: For$12/user/month:
- All features in Business Starter
- Video meetings for up to 150 participants with recording
- 2 TB of pooled storage per user
- Business plus ($18/user/month):
- All features in Business Standard
- Video meetings for up to 500 participants with recording and attendance tracking
- 5 TB of pooled storage per user
- Enhanced security and management features
Businesses needing more than 300 accounts can opt for the Enterprise plan, which offers advanced security, compliance controls and scalable storage options. Contact Google Sales for pricing and more details. Enterprise plans offer more security and unlimited storage. Contact Google Sales to discuss pricing.
Essentials plan
The Essentials plan is designed for users not currently subscribed to Google Workspace, particularly those with existing email and calendaring solutions like Microsoft Office. It enables collaboration using Google Docs, Sheets, Slides and other essential apps. Pricing details for the Essentials plan are not publicly listed; interested users should contact Google Sales for specific pricing information.
Frontline plan
The Frontline plan is available to eligible frontline workers. It includes access to core Workspace apps and endpoint management features to secure data on mobile devices. Contact Google Sales to discuss pricing.
Education plan
Qualified education units, such as K-12 schools, colleges and universities, can use the free Education Fundamentals plan, which gives educators and students access to Google Classroom. For more advanced features, customers can upgrade plans starting at $3/month.
Nonprofit plan
Qualified organizations can apply for a free nonprofit plan, which is a basic Workspace plan. Nonprofits can also get a Workspace plan with more advanced features, starting at $3/month.
Upcoming: Individual plan
As of November 2024, Google Workspace Individual plans are available in multiple countries, including the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Australia, Brazil, Japan and India. These plans offer premium features tailored for small business owners and entrepreneurs, such as appointment scheduling, email marketing and eSignatures. Pricing starts at $9.99 per month.
Besides the primary Workspace apps, Individual plans include booking services and email marketing. Individual plans are recommended for small businesses that don’t need to manage multiple accounts, such as solopreneurs or those starting an online business in 2024.
Top 10 benefits of Google Workspace
Google Workspace is a complete toolset for businesses to streamline work, improve collaboration and enhance efficiency. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 benefits of Google Workspace.
1. Centralized tools in one platform
Google Workspace combines all your favorite tools in one place. Gmail, Docs, Drive, Calendar and Meet work together seamlessly. You don’t need to jump between apps.
2. Real-time collaboration
Teamwork is simple. With Google Docs, Sheets and Slides, teams can simultaneously work on the same document. Real-time editing, comments and suggestions ensure smooth collaboration. Changes save instantly.
3. Enhanced team communication
Google Meet and Chat simplify communication, whether it’s a quick message or a detailed virtual meeting. With built-in features like screen sharing and live captions, your team stays connected no matter where they are. Communication is smoother and easier than ever before.
4. Easy file sharing and storage
Google Drive lets you save and share files securely. Teams can access files from anywhere, ensuring everyone has the latest version. Advanced sharing controls protect sensitive information.
5. Custom email for your business
Google Workspace lets businesses use custom email addresses (e.g., [yourname]@yourcompany.com. A professional email address makes your business look legit.
6. Strong security features
Your data stays safe with built-in security features. Features like two-step verification, data encryption and advanced threat protection safeguard your data. Google Workspace admin can manage permissions and monitor access to maintain control.
7. Scalable for businesses of all sizes
Whether you’re a small team or a big company, Google Workspace grows with you. You can add or remove users as your team grows or changes.
8. Integration with other apps
Google Workspace integrates with popular apps like Slack, Zoom and Salesforce. This allows you to extend its functionality and customize workflows based on your team’s needs.
9. Cost-effective solutions
It’s budget-friendly. Google Workspace provides excellent value for money. It eliminates the need for separate tools, reducing costs while offering premium functionality.
10. Reliable uptime and accessibility
Google Workspace offers 99.9% uptime, ensuring your tools are always available. Since it’s cloud-based, you can access your files and apps from anywhere on any device, whether at the office or on the go.
Google Workspace plans and pricing with Bluehost
Bluehost’s Google Workspace plans are tailored to meet various business needs. Bluehost makes it easy to manage your website hosting and Google Workspace services all in one place, simplifying operations and saving you time. Let’s dive into the plans, features and benefits that make this solution ideal for modern businesses.
Plans and pricing
Business starter: Starting at $3.00 per user per month (billed annually at $36.00 for the first year), this plan includes:
- Custom and secure business email
- 30 GB cloud storage per user
- Video meetings for up to 100 participants
- Standard support
Business Standard: Starting at $6.00 per user per month (billed annually at $72.00 for the first year), this plan offers:
- All features of Business Starter
- 2 TB cloud storage per user
- Video meetings for up to 150 participants, with recording capabilities
- Enhanced security and management controls
Business Plus: Starting at $9.00 per user per month (billed annually at $108.00 for the first year), this plan provides:
- All features of Business Standard
- 5 TB cloud storage per user
- Video meetings for up to 250 participants, with attendance tracking
- Advanced security and compliance features, including Vault and endpoint management
Please note: These promotional rates apply to the first year and are valid for up to five seats. After the initial year, the plans renew at the regular rates:
- Business Starter: $6.00 per user per month
- Business Standard: $12.00 per user per month
- Business Plus: $18.00 per user per month
Pricing comparison
| Feature/Plan | Bluehost | Google Workspace |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Starts at $2.95/month for shared hosting | Starts at $6/month for Starter plan |
| Up to $13.95/month for higher-tier plans | Up to $25/month for Plus plan | |
| Free trial | Yes | No |
| Free domain | Yes (for the first year) | No (domain registration included with Workspace) |
| Email hosting | Yes, with separate plans or as an add-on | Yes, includes Gmail and custom domain email |
| Storage | Varies by plan (e.g., 50GB SSD for basic plan) | 30GB to 5TB per user, depending on the plan |
| SSL certificate | Free SSL certificate included | Not applicable |
| Collaboration tools | Limited to basic email services | Full suite including Docs, Sheets, Slides, and more |
| Customer support | 24/7 support via chat and phone | Support via phone, email, and live chat |
| Uptime guarantee | Average 99.9% uptime | 99.9% uptime guarantee |
| Backup services | Automated backups available (paid add-on) | Built-in version history for documents |
| Website builder | One-click WordPress installer and Weebly website builder | Google Sites for simple website creation |
Add-on features
Google Workspace by Bluehost offers extra tools that go beyond the basics to boost productivity:
- Google Meet: Secure video calls with real-time collaboration.
- Google Chat: Direct messaging and group chats for smooth communication.
- Google Drive: Cloud storage with shared drives for teamwork.
- Google Docs, Sheets and Slides: Co-edit documents, spreadsheets and presentations in real-time.
- Google Forms: Create surveys and forms to collect data easily.
- Google Sites: Build websites for internal projects or public use.
- Google Keep: Capture notes and manage to-do lists.
Benefits of choosing Google Workspace with Bluehost
Choosing Google Workspace through Bluehost comes with key advantages:
- Unified management: Manage both your website hosting and Google Workspace from a single platform. No need to juggle multiple accounts or tools.
- Simplified billing: Keep your expenses organized with one combined bill for hosting and Google Workspace services
- Expert support: Bluehost’s support team is ready to help with both hosting and Google Workspace-related issues, ensuring your business runs smoothly.
- Seamless integration: Easily link your website and email services for a professional, streamlined setup. Enhance your brand’s reliability and efficiency. This includes the thousands of third-party apps on the Google Workspace Marketplace, which are designed to expand the functionality of your favorite Workspace tools.
What’s new in Google Workspace
Google Workspace has introduced several notable updates to enhance productivity and collaboration:
1. AI-powered image generation in Google Docs
Google Workspace has integrated a Gemini-powered AI image generator into Google Docs, allowing users to create visuals directly within their documents. This feature supports various art styles and aspect ratios, facilitating the creation of customized images to complement document content.
The rollout began on November 15, 2024, for rapid-release domains and is scheduled to start for scheduled-release domains on December 16, 2024.
2. Google Vids: AI-powered video creation tool
Google introduced “Google Vids,” an AI-driven video creation app within Google Workspace. Designed to assist businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises, in producing how-to and marketing videos efficiently, Google Vids utilizes the Gemini AI model to generate videos based on simple text prompts and stock images.
This tool aims to streamline video content creation, making it more accessible and cost-effective.
3. Enhanced note-taking in Google Meet
A new feature in Google Meet powered by Gemini AI enables automatic transcription. This functionality compiles meeting notes into a Google Docs file and saves it to the organizer’s Google Drive. It attaches to the corresponding Google Calendar event. Participants within the organization can access these notes via email or the calendar event, allowing users to focus more on discussions and presentations rather than note-taking.
Plan inclusions as follows:
- Gemini Business
- Gemini Enterprise
- AI Meetings and Messaging
4. Material design 3 update for Google Calendar
Google Calendar has been updated with Material Design 3, offering a more modern and accessible interface. This update includes new typography, iconography and the ability to switch between light, dark and system default themes. The rollout began on October 23, 2024, for rapid-release domains and is scheduled to start for scheduled release domains on December 2, 2024
5. Document tabs in Google Docs
Google Docs has introduced a “Document Tabs” feature, allowing users to add tabs within documents for better organization and navigation. This functionality is particularly beneficial for managing long documents by dividing content into manageable segments. Users can customize tab icons with emojis and add sub-tabs to further structure their documents. The feature is expected to be available to all users shortly.
Google Workspace updates
As of November 2024, Google Workspace continues to introduce new features to make work easier and more efficient. Here’s what’s new:
Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud
Google Workspace now integrates seamlessly with Adobe Creative Cloud, allowing users to access and share creative assets directly within Gmail, Docs and Slides. This integration streamlines workflows for creative teams, enabling efficient collaboration without switching between applications.
Inclusive hybrid meetings
For hybrid work environments, Google Workspace has introduced Companion mode in Google Meet. This feature enables in-room participants to join meetings from their devices, giving them access to interactive features like chat, polls and Q&A. By levelling the playing field for remote and in-room attendees, Companion mode ensures everyone can engage equally, no matter where they are.
Celebrating 50 years of email
Reflecting on the evolution of email over the past five decades, Google Workspace continues to innovate with features like machine learning-based spam filtering and enhanced security measures in Gmail. These advancements aim to provide users with a safer and more efficient email experience.
New features coming to Google Workspace
Google continues to improve Google Workspace by introducing new updates and features, such as:
- Automatic framing in Google Meet
- Centers your face on the screen automatically.
- Fixes awkward camera angles before meetings.
- Shielded email in Gmail
- Create temporary email aliases to avoid spam.
- Protects your main email from unwanted messages.
These features don’t have release dates yet. However, the latest G Suite updates are announced on their Google Calendar and Google blog.
Future developments in Google Workspace
Google Workspace continues to evolve with exciting new features that enhance productivity, collaboration and creativity. Here’s a look at the latest updates and their benefits:
Enhanced AI features in Workspace applications
Google is expanding its AI functionalities across popular Workspace tools, making everyday tasks simpler and faster. For example, the “Help me write” feature in Gmail and Docs now supports additional languages, including Spanish and Portuguese, enabling users to draft emails and documents effortlessly. Google Meet also introduces automatic framing, ensuring participants remain centred on the screen during video calls, enhancing professionalism in virtual meetings.
- Benefits:
- Multilingual support: The expanded language capabilities of AI tools help global teams communicate effectively, breaking language barriers.
- Improved meeting quality: Automatic framing in Google Meet makes virtual interactions smoother and more polished, fostering better engagement in hybrid work settings.
- Efficiency: These features save time and reduce the effort required for routine tasks like writing or adjusting camera settings during calls.
Integration of Gemini AI models
Google is embedding its powerful Gemini AI models into Workspace applications to provide advanced generative AI capabilities. This integration enables users to automate complex tasks like content drafting, image generation and workflow optimization across Google Docs, Sheets and Slides.
- Benefits:
- Increased productivity: Automating repetitive tasks frees up time for employees to focus on strategic initiatives and creative problem-solving.
- Enhanced creativity: Teams can generate high-quality content and visuals without needing technical expertise, fostering innovation and ideation.
- Streamlined workflows: By simplifying complex processes, Gemini AI ensures that teams work faster and more efficiently.
Why these updates matter
Google Workspace is evolving to meet the demands of modern work. These updates tackle challenges like time management, content creation and virtual collaboration.
Tools like Google Vids, AI features and Gemini AI help businesses work more efficiently and stay engaged. They save time, simplify tasks and make teamwork easier.
These changes are not just about convenience. They promote teams to work smarter, collaborate effectively and achieve better results. These features help you thrive in today’s fast-paced work environment.
Final thoughts
Remote work and hybrid models have reshaped the way businesses operate.
The remote work trend is here to stay. As many companies adapt to this new normal, Google Workspace keeps up with demands by rolling out new features that make collaboration and communication more seamless.
Google Workspace’s commitment to security is evident through features like Shielded Email in Gmail, which are designed to protect users from unwanted emails. Additionally, Google Workspace has undergone significant updates to enhance productivity and collaboration.
Scalability is another key advantage. Whether you’re a small business starting out or a growing company, Bluehost’s Google Workspace can adapt to your needs. Adding users, upgrading plans or integrating additional features is seamless. Expert support from Bluehost ensures you’re never stuck. Whether it’s hosting issues or Workspace-related queries, you have reliable assistance whenever you need it.
At Bluehost, we’re proud of our ongoing partnership with Google Cloud. Our collaboration enables us to bring cutting-edge tools and solutions to businesses of all sizes. Recognized as the Google Cloud Expansion Partner of the Year in North America, we continue to help customers leverage Google Workspace to achieve growth, success and seamless remote work solutions.
Get started with your favorite Google apps with Bluehost’s Google Workspace!
FAQ’s
Google Workspace focuses on real-time collaboration with tools like Docs, Sheets and Meet. Microsoft 365 offers similar features but integrates deeply with desktop software like Word and Excel. Google Workspace is cloud-first and simpler for remote teams.
Integration allows you to manage hosting and email from one dashboard. You also get unified billing, expert support and seamless website-email connections for a professional setup.
Yes, eligible nonprofits can access free or discounted Google Workspace plans. Contact Bluehost support for assistance in applying.
Google Workspace is user-friendly, cost-effective and cloud-based. It offers custom emails, real-time collaboration and scalable tools ideal for growing teams.
Yes, you can connect your Google Workspace account to your existing domain hosted on Bluehost. The setup is simple and ensures your business email is branded and professional.
Absolutely! Google Workspace lets you create custom email addresses like [yourname]@yourcompany.com. Bluehost makes setup easy and secure.
Google Workspace uses advanced security settings like two-step verification and data encryption. Bluehost adds extra layers of protection for your website and email. This ensures your data stays safe.
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