Use AI to supercharge your financial analysis with Workday for Google Sheets

Use AI to supercharge your financial analysis with Workday for Google Sheets Google Sheets Rapid Release Scheduled Release Workday for Google Sheets is a new add-on available in the Google Workspace Marketplace that connects Workday Adaptive Planning directly to Google Sheets and Slides. Deeply integrated with the AI-powered “Ask Workday” feature in Adaptive Planning, this add-on eliminates the need for manual CSV downloads. | Learn more.

New manual calculation setting in Google Sheets

We’re introducing a new manual calculation setting in Google Sheets to give you precise control over when formulas and other references update. The new manual calculation setting allows editors of complex or data-dense spreadsheets to pause automatic recalculation, batch their edits, and trigger a sheet-wide update at the exact moment they are ready to review the results. | Learn more.

Study notebooks in Gemini are now available for Google Workspace accounts

Now, we’re excited to share that users of all ages who are signed into a school or work-issued Google account will also have access to study notebooks if the Gemini app and Gemini Notebook are enabled by their admin. | Learn more.

Manually reorder and custom sort pivot tables in Google Sheets

Google Sheets now supports custom sorting and manual reordering in pivot tables. Users can now drag and drop rows and columns on a pivot table to match specific presentation needs and custom business hierarchies, rather than being restricted to standard ascending or descending alphanumeric order. | Learn more.

Introducing the new Confluence integration with Google Chat

Confluence by Atlassian is designed  for teams to store and share ideas, docs, and knowledge. Workspace customers can now use Confluence for Google Chat to bring relevant project context and information from Confluence directly into Chat conversations. This integration, which is part of the Atlassian add-on, enables teams to work more effectively by connecting real-time collaboration with source-of-truth documentation. | Learn more.

Quick notes in Take notes for me

Introducing Quick notes – high-level overview of main takeaways from your meetings that empowers you to quickly review essential information without diving into every single detail. Designed specifically for the efficient consumption of knowledge, the content fits onto a single page and is strictly limited to the most important meeting action items, outcomes, and talking points. It is built primarily for executive users, or anyone less involved in the deep details, who needs to extract information as fast as possible. | Learn more.

New Google Meet 'Take notes for me' settings for admins and end users take effect September 29th

Previously, we announced new admin and end user settings for Google Meet ‘Take notes for me’ pre-configuration. These settings will begin to take effect September 29th. | Learn more.

Occupancy counting now available for Google Meet on Logitech room hardware

Occupancy counting is now available for Android-based Logitech Gen 2 room hardware (starting with Logitech Rally Board 65) to help measure how meeting rooms are used. This feature brings the same occupancy counting capabilities found on ChromeOS devices to Android-based hardware. Support for occupancy counting will be added next year for earlier Gen 1 devices later as part of an upcoming CollabOS update. | Learn more.

Seamlessly import your emails from any IMAP server to Google Workspace

We’re excited to announce the GA release of a new, simplified way for Workspace admins to import their past emails from any IMAP-based email provider while setting up Google Workspace. | Learn more.

Ground AI prompts in Google Docs on existing sources from Gemini Notebook

We are introducing the ability to use Gemini Notebook as a context source in Google Docs. Building on our Workspace Intelligence foundation, this feature bridges the gap between deep research and content creation by grounding your drafts in a curated knowledge base – all without the need to switch tabs or copy-paste between tools. | Learn more.

Gemini Omni 1.1 Flash now in Vids with improved extension quality, 1080p, and duration control

Users now have access to Gemini Omni 1.1 Flash directly within Google Vids. Omni 1.1 provides higher quality video extension with significant improvements in character and audio consistency. Additionally, Vids now supports generating AI videos and upscaling AI videos to 1080p to be publish ready. | Learn more.

Assign temporary administrator roles in the Google Admin console

Admins can now assign administrator roles to users, groups, or service accounts for a defined period of time. Once the expiration time is reached, the access granted by the role is automatically revoked. | Learn more.

Now in beta: Import and convert your PowerPoint files to client-side encrypted Slides

Eligible customers can now import PowerPoint files as client-side encrypted (CSE) Slides, allowing users to access and edit content. This enables interoperability with Microsoft Office, with this launch PowerPoint files are encrypted on the client before the content is imported to Workspace, and then converted to high-fidelity encrypted Slides. | Learn more.

View up to three time zones in Google Calendar on the web

We’re making it easier to schedule and coordinate meetings across global teams by expanding time zone support in Google Calendar on the web. You can now configure and display up to three time zones—a primary, secondary, and new tertiary time zone—directly on your calendar grid. Previously, users could only display a primary and secondary time zone. | Learn more.

The announcements above were published on the Workspace Updates blog over the last week. Please refer to the original blog posts for complete details.

Previously, we announced new admin and end user settings for Google Meet ‘Take notes for me’ pre-configuration. These settings will begin to take effect September 29th.

Below is the previously communicated information about these new settings.

Admin settings

Previously, admins could only enable or disable automatic note-taking for all meetings. We’re now rolling out a third option, which will allow admins to enable automatic note-taking only for meetings with three or more people.

Customers on Business Standard and Business Plus plans will see this setting turned ON by default on; the setting will be OFF by default for customers on Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, and Frontline Plus plans, as well as those with the Google AI Pro for Education add-on. If you want to change your settings, you can do so in the Admin console. These settings will begin impacting end users on September 29th 2026. 

If you currently participate in the Gemini Alpha program, and previously tested this setting, it may already be ON. Please review the current state of the settings for your organization in the Admin console.

End user settings

We’re also introducing a way for end users to enable note-taking only for meetings with three or more participants. Once the “For all meetings I host with 3+ guests” option rolls out, users should revisit their settings to confirm they’re configured as desired. This option will begin rolling out on September 29th.

Getting started

• Admins for Business Standard and Business Plus organizations: This new setting is ON by default and will begin impacting users on September 29th. If you want to change your settings, you can do so in the Admin console. Visit the Help Center for more information on how to adjust these settings.
• Admins for Enterprise Standard, Enterprise Plus, Frontline Plus, and Google AI Pro for Education organizations: This new setting is OFF by default and will begin impacting users September 29th. If you want to change your settings, you can do so in the Admin console. Visit the Help Center for more information on how to adjust these settings.
• Admins for organizations participating in Gemini Alpha program: Your settings may be impacted by previous configurations. Please review your settings before September 29th, to ensure they’re configured correctly.
• End users on all plans: The default set by admins will go into effect for end users September 29th. Users can override this default in the Meet user settings after that date. Visit the Help Center to learn more about Meeting settings for “take notes for me”.

Rollout pace

Pre-Configured settings will take effect:

• Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Extended rollout (potentially longer than 15 days for feature visibility) starting September 29th

End user setting rollout:

• Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Extended rollout (potentially longer than 15 days for feature visibility) starting September 29th

Availability

• Business: Business Standard and Plus
• Enterprise: Enterprise Standard and Plus
• Other Editions: Frontline Plus
• Education Add-ons: Google AI Pro for Education

Resources

• Google Meet Help: Take notes for me in Google Meet
• Google Workspace Updates Blog: New user controls for Take notes for me

Set up sharing boundaries for Google Drive with unified data protection rules

We’re introducing a new capability that allows Google Workspace administrators to configure audience sharing and sensitivity-based data conditions in a single, unified rule. This unified rule flow helps organizations elevate their security posture to proactively mitigate insider risks, prevent data exfiltration, and safely unblock collaboration for high-sensitivity environments. | Learn more.

Gmail Search’s AI Overviews now available globally

Starting today, we are expanding access to AI Overviews in Gmail search to global users (with paid plans) who have their Gmail language set as English. Previously, this was only available to users in the US with their language set as English. | Learn more.

Connect to more tools with Gemini in Google Workspace

Users will now be able to use Gemini in Workspace to directly interact with Asana, Atlassian Rovo, HubSpot, Intuit Mailchimp, Intuit QuickBooks, Monday, and Salesforce through Model Context Protocol (MCP) integrations. This will enable them to access information directly without needing to switch tabs, download files, or interrupt workflows across our Google Workspace apps including Sheets, Gmail, Drive, Docs, Chat, and more. | Learn more.

Connect to Google Meet hardware with room codes now generally available

Google Meet users can now connect to nearby conference room hardware by entering a 5-character room code on their personal device. Building on the recent Connect Room launch that uses proximity-based detection to identify nearby hardware, this update provides a reliable manual fallback when ultrasound is unavailable or disabled. | Learn more.

Data regions support for Google Apps Script now generally available

Data regions are critical for helping organizations meet internal compliance, legal, regulatory, and data sovereignty obligations by controlling the geographic location of covered data at rest and through data processing. Expanding these controls to Apps Script allows organizations—including those in highly regulated industries and the public sector—to build, deploy, and automate enterprise workflows with confidence that their script data and executions remain within designated geographic boundaries. | Learn more.

View conference room and meeting location details directly on the Google Meet homepage

Starting today, we’re enhancing the Meet homepage experience by displaying conference room and physical meeting locations directly on upcoming meeting cards. For in-office users this update allows them to see where they need to go directly on their Meet landing page, streamlining their workflow before and between meetings. | Learn more.

Introducing Expert Intelligence in Gemini Notebook

We’re introducing Expert Intelligence, a cross Google initiative that helps users engage with trusted sources through Google AI products, starting with Gemini Notebook. Featuring more than 100,000 books from major publishers, employees and students can now incorporate insights from leading authors, publications, and domain experts directly into Gemini Notebook. | Learn more.

Automate workflows with custom starters and steps, third-party integrations, and webhooks in Workspace Studio

To expand the capabilities of Workspace Studio and help teams build powerful, custom automations, we are introducing four new features for flows in Workspace Studio: custom starters, custom steps, third-party (3P) integrations, and webhooks. These new capabilities empower users to seamlessly connect custom Google Apps Script functions, integrate third-party services, and trigger external webhooks directly within flows in Workspace Studio. | Learn more.

Notebooks in Gemini: a dedicated workspace for focused, organized work, now for schools and organizations

In April, we announced notebooks in Gemini as a dedicated, focused space for individual users to organize their projects and conversations. Now, students of all ages, educators, and professionals can access notebooks to keep conversations about a topic organized in one place. | Learn more.

New back-to-school features and learning tools available in Gemini Notebook

We’re introducing several updates to Gemini Notebook that give users a more personalized and powerful learning experience. | Learn more.

The announcements above were published on the Workspace Updates blog over the last week. Please refer to the original blog posts for complete details.

To expand the capabilities of Workspace Studio and help teams build powerful, custom automations, we are introducing four new features for flows in Workspace Studio: custom starters, custom steps, third-party (3P) integrations, and webhooks. These new capabilities empower users to seamlessly connect custom Google Apps Script functions, integrate third-party services, and trigger external webhooks directly within flows in Workspace Studio.

All of these features are backed by granular enterprise security controls that allow admins to safely enable and adopt agentic capabilities across their organizations.

• Custom starters: Build and publish custom, real-time triggers to run flows based on events in other applications.

Custom starter that triggers a Studio Flow from an external application

• Custom steps: Build and run custom logic (e.g. using Apps Script) and tailor flows to advanced business needs.

Create custom steps using Apps Script

• Third-party integrations (Beta): Connect third-party applications and services to pass data effortlessly between Workspace and external tools to automate your business flows. The following integrations are available:
• Asana
• Confluence
• Hubspot
• Jira
• Mailchimp
• Quickbooks
• Salesforce
• Slack

Step to add a Jira comment in Studio Flows

• Webhooks: Send HTTP requests to external endpoints and trigger actions in them. On supported editions, admins can set an URL allowlist for webhook access.

Webhook step in Studio Flows

Getting started

• Admins:
• These features are OFF by default. Admins can enable them in the Workspace Admin Console under Apps > Google Workspace > Workspace Studio:
• Custom steps settings
• Integration settings
• Webhook settings
• Admins can change the human approval requirements in the Workspace Admin Console under Apps > Google Workspace > Workspace Studio > Approvals. Custom steps and Integration have their own approval settings, while Webhooks respect the approval settings for Sensitive Steps.
• Visit the Admin Help Center to learn more about setting up Workspace Studio, allowing or blocking custom starters and steps, allowing or blocking integration steps, and allowing or blocking send a webhook.
• End users: Try the new features in Google Workspace Studio. Learn more by reviewing the Help Center articles for Custom Starters and Steps, Third-party Integrations, and Webhooks

Rollout pace

Admin console settings

• Rapid and Scheduled Release domains: Full rollout (1-3 days for feature visibility) starting on September 17, 2026

End-user visible features

• Rapid Release domains: Full rollout (1-3 days for feature visibility) starting on September 21, 2026
• Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on September 30, 2026

Availability

• Business: Business Starter, Standard, and Plus
• Enterprise: Enterprise Standard and Plus
• Education: Education Fundamentals, Standard, and Plus
• Education Add-ons: Google AI Pro for Education; Teaching and Learning
• Other Add-ons: AI Expanded Access

*Webhook URL allowlist functionality is available for Business Plus; Enterprise Standard and Enterprise Plus; Education Standard and Education Plus

Resources

• Google Workspace Admin Help: Workspace Studio
• Workspace Studio Help: Get Started with Workspace Studio
• YouTube: Workspace Studio Playlist
• Discord: Workspace Studio Channel

Use custom web fonts in Google Sheets charts

Google Sheets now supports the full Google Fonts web font library directly within charts. Users can now select “More fonts” from any font dropdown inside the chart editor sidebar to search, add, and apply custom web fonts across key chart text elements. | Learn more.

Introducing the new 1Password App for Google Chat

Introducing the new 1Password App for Google Chat Google Chat Rapid Release Scheduled Release The new 1Password SaaS Manager integration for Google Chat helps teams streamline IT and HR processes by bringing notifications, actions  and approvals directly within Chat. | Learn more.

Context-aware access controls are available for Gemini Enterprise in the Admin console

Context-aware access controls are available for Gemini Enterprise in the Admin console Admin console Gemini Rapid Release Scheduled Release Security and Compliance To help organizations elevate their security posture, we are introducing context-aware access (CAA) policies in the Admin console for Gemini Enterprise. | Learn more.

Pick up where you left off with persistent drafts in Google Chat

We are introducing persistent drafts in Google Chat. Unsent messages are now automatically saved so you can finish and send later, and are also synchronized across your devices, allowing you to start composing a message on one device and finish or send it from another. | Learn more.

Create content, schedule events, and coordinate tasks across Workspace regardless of what app you are in

Completing a single task shouldn't mean breaking your focus or switching apps. To keep you in the flow of work, Gemini can tackle complex tasks behind the scenes, working as an intelligent orchestrator across Workspace using the power of Workspace Intelligence. | Learn more.

Automatic room check-in for Google Meet available on mobile devices

We’re excited to announce that this feature is now rolling out to all Workspace customers with Google Meet hardware. This feature simplifies the process of joining meetings for those using companion mode on a phone or tablet within a conference room. We're introducing automatic room check-in via ultrasound proximity detection. | Learn more.

Create and edit calculated fields in Google Sheets pivot tables with an improved editor

We are introducing a new, dedicated formula editor dialog for creating and editing calculated fields within pivot tables in Google Sheets. This update streamlines how you build custom formulas and derived metrics, making data analysis faster and more accurate. | Learn more.

Doubled cell limits in Google Sheets now generally available

We’re committed to continuously improving Sheets to ensure it is a powerful, responsive, and scalable spreadsheet tool for your needs. To that end, we’ve increased the cell limit in Google Sheets from up to 10 million cells to up to 20 million cells. This limit applies to new, existing, and imported files. | Learn more.

Manage external sharing for Gemini Notebook in the Admin console

Google Workspace administrators can now enable external sharing for Gemini Notebook using granular controls in the Admin console. Previously, administrators only had a single high-level toggle to turn Gemini Notebook completely on or off for their entire organization. | Learn more.

Gemini in Google Sheets is now available on Android devices

Building upon the power of Gemini in Sheets on the web, we’re excited to announce that you can now use Gemini in Google Sheets on your Android device to quickly analyze and understand your data while on the go. | Learn more.

The Gemini desktop app is now available for Windows

Today, we’re launching the Gemini desktop app for Windows 10 and 11. This new application is designed to operate seamlessly alongside users’ favorite tools, providing instant assistance without disrupting their workflows. | Learn more.

Seamlessly import your team and data from Microsoft to Google Workspace during setup

We’re excited to announce the GA release of a new, simplified way for small businesses to import their users and their business data from Microsoft while setting up Google Workspace with our data import tool. | Learn more.

The announcements above were published on the Workspace Updates blog over the last week. Please refer to the original blog posts for complete details.

We are introducing persistent drafts in Google Chat. Unsent messages are now automatically saved so you can finish and send later, and are also synchronized across your devices, allowing you to start composing a message on one device and finish or send it from another.

With this update, you can start typing a message and finish later, even if you close Chat or reboot your device. If you start typing a message at your desk, you can finish and send the message from your tablet or mobile phone during your commute. Your unsent drafts will be waiting in the conversation compose box and the drafts shortcut.

• Drafts are saved per conversation (DMs, group DMs, and Spaces).
• You will find your drafts for a given conversation or thread stored in the compose box.
• You will also find your drafts across all conversations in the drafts shortcut.
• Unsent drafts are retained for up to 30 days.

Getting started

• Admins: There is no admin control for this feature.
• End users: There is no end user setting for this feature. Visit the Help Center to learn more.

Rollout pace

Web

• Rapid Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility with expected completion by September 15, 2026)  starting on September 8, 2026 
• Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on September 22, 2026

Android & iOS

• Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on September 28, 2026

Availability

• Available to all Google Workspace customers, Workspace Individual subscribers, and users with personal Google accounts

Resources

• Google Help: Reply to a message in Google Chat

Add co-presenters in Google Meet with one click

Google Pics brings pro-level AI image creation and editing to Google Workspace

Automate Drive, Gmail, and Google Chat actions with new steps in Workspace Studio

Custom instructions for Gemini in Workspace now available in more apps

Turn Google Docs, PDFs, and Word files into video summaries in Google Vids

New built-in interoperability between Google Meet and Microsoft Teams on Android (AOSP) devices, now in Early Preview

Introducing comprehensive audit logs for Gemini Notebook in the Workspace Admin console

We’re introducing video conferencing device interoperability between Google Meet and Microsoft Teams, which will allow you to:

• Join Microsoft Teams meetings from Android (AOSP)-based Google Meet hardware devices
• Join Google Meet meetings from Android (AOSP)-based Microsoft Teams Rooms devices

Please note that this interoperability feature was previously launched on Chrome OS-based Google Meet Rooms and Windows-based Microsoft Teams Rooms. This launch extends conferencing capabilities to Android devices enrolled in our Early Preview Program for users in domains on the Rapid Release track. For instructions on how to set up Google Meet on Microsoft Teams Rooms devices, consult the admin documentation provided by Microsoft.

Getting started

• Admins: This feature will be ON by default and can be disabled at the organizational unit (OU) level. This new functionality will not replace existing Pexip settings for any OU that already has them in place. Visit the Help Center to learn more about allowing Meet hardware to join third-party video conferencing services. 
• End users: Visit the Help Center to learn how to join Microsoft Teams meetings with Google Meet hardware.

Rollout pace

Admin console setting

• Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Full rollout (1–3 days for feature visibility) starting on August 31, 2026

End user visibility

• Rapid Release domains: Rolling out now to Meet hardware devices enrolled in Early Preview, with expected completion by September 7, 2026

Availability

• Available to all Google Workspace customers with Google Meet hardware devices running Android/AOSP 

Resources

• Google Workspace Admin Help: Allow Meet hardware to join third-party video conferencing services 
• Google Workspace Admin Help: Join Microsoft Teams meetings with Google Meet hardware
• Workspace Updates Blog: New built-in interoperability between Google Meet and Microsoft Teams

To help teams automate everyday work and seamlessly connect tasks across Google Workspace, we are introducing four new automation steps in Workspace Studio Flows: Move Drive file, Copy Drive file, Send a Chat reply, and Reply to email.

These new steps give end users greater control over document management and cross-channel communications, enabling end-to-end automated flows directly from Workspace Studio. Admins will have settings to disable individual steps and to require end-user approval when these actions may share data with audiences outside of their organization.

• Copy Drive file or folder: Make a copy of Google Drive files and folders when a flow runs to streamline template generation and intake processes.
• Move Drive file or folder: Automatically move Google Drive files and folders, keeping project folders organized without manual file management.
• Reply to email: Automatically send email replies within existing threads, preserving contextual conversation history for support, triage, and task tracking workflows.
• Send a Chat reply: Post targeted, formatted replies into specific Google Chat spaces and threads, now complete with Markdown support for enhanced text styling, lists, and code blocks.

Getting started

• Admins: This step is available by default if you allow Gemini for Google Workspace steps. Visit the Help Center to learn more about managing access to steps and starters in Workspace Studio.
• End users: Try the feature in Google Workspace Studio. Visit the Help Center to learn more about these steps.

Rollout pace

Availability

• Business: Business Starter, Standard, and Plus
• Enterprise: Enterprise Standard and Plus
• Education: Education Fundamentals, Standard, and Plus
• Education Add-ons: Google AI Pro for Education; Teaching and Learning
• Other Add-ons: AI Expanded Access

Resources

• Google Workspace Admin Help: Workspace Studio
• Workspace Studio Help: Get Started with Workspace Studio
• YouTube: Workspace Studio Playlist
• Discord: Workspace Studio Channel

We're transitioning our Google Meet hardware portfolio from ChromeOS to Android to deliver features faster, broaden device choices, and increase flexibility. We're working closely with hardware partners, including Logitech, Neat, and HP Poly, to offer Google Meet-certified devices for spaces of any size, with several exciting Android devices intended for large-format spaces planned for 2027.

Support and transition timeline for ChromeOS

Existing investments in ChromeOS devices are protected. The support timelines for these devices have not changed and will continue to be fully supported through a multi-year transition period, extending up to September 2030 for recent models. We will continue delivering security patches, stability updates, and ChromeOS releases for all Google Meet hardware running ChromeOS.

To help you plan room refresh cycles, hardware partners will gradually end manufacturing and sales for ChromeOS-based hardware according to the following timelines:

• Logitech / CTL Google Meet Compute System: February 2027
• ASUS Google Meet Compute System: April 2027

For customers looking to purchase ChromeOS devices to complement their existing fleet, particularly for large event spaces, we encourage you to purchase devices as soon as possible.

Benefits of Android in meeting rooms

Adopting Android as the foundation for Google Meet hardware provides several benefits:

• Device variety: Android-based room hardware offers a broader range of form factors, including compact all-in-one devices, video bars, and integrated room solutions. Whether equipping a focus room, collaborative huddle space, or boardroom, you have options to find the right fit.
• Enterprise stability: Android-based devices deliver the performance, responsiveness, and stability you rely on with ChromeOS.
• Hardware flexibility: Certified AOSP devices can run multiple video conferencing solutions, protecting your investment by allowing rooms to be repurposed without replacing equipment.
• Long lifecycles: Devices certified for Google Meet are engineered for long-term reliability and predictable software support.

The portfolio of supported hardware is growing as we actively work with partners to certify additional next-generation devices and qualified peripherals.

Partner collaboration

Our partners already offer Google Meet-certified AOSP options. Together, we're simplifying deployment, accelerating AI features like Take notes for me, and making meeting rooms more collaborative. Explore devices options and find contact information for our partners on the links below.

Getting started

• Admins: Use our Help Center to learn more about supported devices for Google Meet hardware.

Resources

• Hardware for Google Meet from our partners
• Logitech
• Neat
• HP Poly
• Google Help: Google Meet hardware certification program
• Google Help: Compare Google Meet hardware options

Now available: A refreshed user interface for Google Meet hardware touch controllers on Neat and Poly devices

On August 26, 2026, we are officially launching our updated user interface for Neat touch controllers and  the Poly TC8. Overall, the design allows users to concentrate on their meetings rather than searching for controls, resulting in a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing experience. | Learn more.

Generate interactive simulations and models in the Gemini app

Gemini can transform your questions and complex topics into custom, interactive visualizations — directly within your Gemini app chat.  | Learn more.

Restrict who can view the member lists in Google Chat spaces

Space owners and managers can now control who can view the full list of members in a Google Chat space, providing enhanced privacy and administrative control for sensitive, large-scale, or external collaboration spaces. | Learn more.

Introducing data import for Microsoft Teams: An easier, faster, and higher-fidelity migration to Google Workspace

For enterprise organizations, migrating communication history and collaboration channels to a new platform can feel daunting and risk interrupting daily business operations. To make this transition smoother, we are excited to announce that migrating chat data from Microsoft Teams to Google Workspace for large scale workloads is now generally available in data import. | Learn more.

Introducing data import for Microsoft OneDrive: An easier, faster, and higher-fidelity migration to Google Workspace

For enterprise organizations, migrating files along with their permissions to a new platform can feel daunting and risk interrupting daily business operations. To help simplify this transition, we are excited to announce general availability of Google Workspace data import (advanced mode) to support large-scale file migrations from Microsoft OneDrive. | Learn more.

Preserve and reuse grouped pivot table fields in Google Sheets

Google Sheets now supports grouped field persistence for pivot tables. When you create custom groupings or work with grouped date, time, or numeric fields, these fields are now retained directly in the pivot table editor sidebar as reusable source fields. | Learn more.

Control “Take notes for me” directly from Google Meet hardware touch controllers

On August 31, 2026, we’ll start rolling out the ability to start, stop, and manage the “Take notes for me” feature directly from the Google Meet Hardware touch controller for eligible meetings. This ensures in-room participants have direct control over Gemini note-taking without being in Companion mode. | Learn more.

Google Classroom now supports Context-Aware Access controls

We’re excited to introduce the ability to specify Context-Aware Access policies to control access to Google Classroom. This update allows Google Workspace administrators to set granular security parameters for Classroom access directly from the Admin console. | Learn more.

Improving Google Calendar’s interoperability with third-party video conferencing solutions

We are introducing improvements to Google Calendar that make it easier to join third-party video meetings, including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Cisco Webex, when collaborating across different calendar and email clients. | Learn more.

Suppress email responses to calendar invitations and updates

We’re introducing a new per-event setting in Google Calendar that allows meeting organizers or their delegates to decide whether or not to receive RSVP emails and automatic responses, such as out-of-office messages and vacation responders. | Learn more.

Preview client-side encrypted PDF and image files directly in Google Drive, now available in beta

Previously, users needed to download encrypted non-native files to their local devices to view the contents. With this capability, authorized users can immediately preview encrypted content in their web browser without leaving Drive. | Learn more.

Gemini-based data classification in Google Drive is now available in open beta

This feature leverages Gemini models to apply data classification labels to files in Google Drive. Previously, AI classification required admins to identify and manually label training files for the AI model to learn the types of data associated with each data classification level. | Learn more.

The announcements above were published on the Workspace Updates blog over the last week. Please refer to the original blog posts for complete details.

Client-side encryption (CSE) provides organizations control over access to their confidential data, with customer controlled encryption keys and data that is indecipherable to third-parties, including Google. Google Drive now supports direct file previewing for CSE files. Previously, users needed to download encrypted non-native files to their local devices to view the contents. With this capability, authorized users can immediately preview encrypted content in their web browser without leaving Drive.

This feature streamlines productivity and bolsters security by eliminating unnecessary downloads. At launch, preview is supported only on Drive, and for:

• Encrypted PDF documents
• Encrypted Image file formats

Admins with eligible Workspace licenses can sign up for the beta program, which provides access to the feature.

Preview of an encrypted PDF, accessible in Drive

Getting started

• Admins: Admins with eligible Workspace licenses can sign up for the beta program. We’ll provide more information on how to get started if you’re accepted.
• End users: This feature is ON for users in domains that have registered for the beta program.

Availability

• Enterprise: Enterprise Plus
• Education: Education Standard and Plus
• Other Editions: Frontline Plus, Assured Controls, Assured Controls Plus

Resources

• Google Workspace Admin Help: About client-side encryption
• Beta Application: Registration form

On August 31, 2026, we’ll start rolling out the ability to start, stop, and manage the “Take notes for me” feature directly from the Google Meet Hardware touch controller for eligible meetings. This ensures in-room participants have direct control over Gemini note-taking without being in Companion mode.

Controlling “Take notes for me” from the Google Meet hardware touch controller

Historically, managing AI features during a meeting required a user to join from a laptop in Companion mode. This new update surfaces the necessary controls directly on the touchscreen hardware, making it easier for team collaboration. In particular, it offers the following:

Easy visibility & control

We are surfacing a dedicated badge on the touch controller screen, mirroring the web experience. Users can easily see if Gemini is taking notes and toggle its state between active and inactive.

Active and inactive states of “Take notes For me” on the Google Meet hardware touch controller

Off-the-record capability

Users can confidently pause note-taking during off-the-record discussions, then resume with the tap of a button.

Pause and continue taking notes when needed with “Take notes For me” on the Google Meet hardware touch controller

Note: This feature will be available on the touch controller only for meetings where “Take notes for me” is available.

Getting started

• Admins: This feature is available on Google Meet hardware if “Take notes for me” is enabled for your organization.
• End users: During a meeting on a Google Meet hardware device, tap the “Take notes for me” icon on the touch controller to start or stop taking notes. Visit the Help Center to learn more about “Take notes for me” in Google Meet.

Rollout pace

• Early Preview devices: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on August 31, 2026 
• Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on September 8, 2026

Availability

• Business: Business Standard and Plus
• Enterprise: Enterprise Standard and Plus
• Consumer: Google AI Plus, Pro, and Ultra
• Other Editions: Frontline Plus
• Education Add-Ons: Google AI Pro for Education

Note: The plans above include “Take notes for me,” but this feature only operates on Google Meet hardware, which requires a separate license. Some users on Google Meet hardware with licenses that do not include “Take notes for me” functionality may see this feature if they join a meeting that is “Take notes for me’“ capable.

Resources

• Google Meet Hardware Help: Get support for Google Meet hardware
• Google Meet Help: Use Take Notes for Me in Google Meet

On August 26, 2026, we are officially launching our updated user interface for Neat touch controllers and  the Poly TC8.

Overall, the design allows users to concentrate on their meetings rather than searching for controls, resulting in a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing experience.

Here's what you can expect:

• Simplified Access to Key Controls: The controls you use most frequently, like mute and hand raise, are more prominent and easily accessible, helping you cut down on time searching for features and spend more time focusing on your meeting.
• Intuitively Organized Features:
• In-meeting experience: If you need to access more advanced features, like camera controls or the meeting layout, you can find them under the “More actions” menu. This keeps the main interface clean while ensuring less frequently used features are still readily accessible.
• Pre-call experience: You'll also notice a refresh for the pre-call meeting UI, which prominently features the option to enter a meeting code or nickname, and a drop-down menu for Webex or Zoom meetings.
• A Familiar Interface: The touch controller UI will now look and feel similar to the Google Meet UI as seen on Laptop & Desktop devices, which will help navigating the menu more intuitively.

Pre-meeting experience UI refresh Neat/Poly touch controller will now have

In-meeting experience UI refresh featuring quick action controls

This launch brings the modern UI experience to an expanded lineup of hardware, ensuring visual consistency across your meeting rooms. These improvements are designed to reduce user friction and support tickets by mirroring the exact interaction layout users are already accustomed to on their individual workstations.

Expanding availability

With the addition of Neat Pad andPoly TC8, we are continuing our commitment to expanding support for the new UI across all Google Meet touch controllers, including various Android Open Source Project (AOSP) ecosystem devices.

Getting started

• Admins: This feature will be enabled by default for supported Neat Pad and, Poly TC8. You can visit the Help Center to learn more about managing settings and layouts for your organization's devices.
• End users: No action is required. You will automatically see the updated, intuitive interface the next time you interact with your in-room touch controller. Visit the Help Center to learn more about using the new Google Meet Hardware touchscreen features.

Rollout pace

• Early Preview devices: Gradual rollout (up to 7 days for feature visibility) starting on August 26, 2026
• Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 3 days for feature visibility) starting on September 2nd, 2026

Availability

• Available to all Google Workspace customers with supported Google Meet hardware devices.

Resources

• Google Workspace Admin Help: Using the new Google Meet Hardware touchscreen
• Google Help: Try the new Google Meet Hardware touch controller UI

Enhanced external sharing insights now available in Drive Inventory Reporting

Administrators using Drive Inventory Reporting in Google BigQuery can now access granular external sharing fields designed to simplify complex permission structures. By automatically consolidating direct permissions, group memberships, and public links into clear signals, this update helps organizations easily identify external exposure across their Drive environments. | Learn more.

New enterprise security controls for Workspace Studio enable expanded collaboration use cases

Workspace Studio enables users to boost their productivity with custom, no-code agentic automation. Today, we are adding a new set of enterprise security controls to enable additional collaboration use cases. These granular identity, data protection, observability, and governance controls provide admins with more confidence to safely enable and adopt agentic capabilities in their organization. | Learn more.

Make a copy of a notebook in Gemini Notebook

Gemini Notebook users can now copy entire notebooks, including all associated sources and studio items, if they have copy permission for that notebook. This capability allows users to build upon existing work or templates shared by others. | Learn more.

Use Gemini to help manage Google Workspace for your organization

We are introducing Admin Assist, bringing two new Gemini-powered capabilities to the Google Admin Console: the Sidepanel and Search Overviews. Designed to simplify complex administrative workflows and troubleshooting, this launch makes managing Google Workspace easier and faster. | Learn more.

Managing unsolicited event invitations with user blocking in Google Calendar

You can now protect your calendar from repeated calendar spam and unwanted invitations. When you block a user in Google Calendar, the current event is automatically removed and you no longer receive new calendar invitations from that person. | Learn more.

Elevate your Google Meet experience for shared meeting spaces with Room Display mode

We are excited to introduce Room Display mode, a new dual-window experience for Google Meet on the web. Launching in beta, this feature is designed specifically for "Bring Your Own Device"  meeting spaces, where users connect a personal laptop to a shared external display, such as a TV or projector. | Learn more.

Introducing Ask Gemini in Chat: your new partner in productivity

Google Chat is the central hub for real-time collaboration in Workspace, and starting August 26, 2026, it becomes the place where you can bring the power of Gemini into your flow of teamwork. We’re introducing Ask Gemini in Google Chat, a unified command line for your work, powered by Workspace Intelligence. | Learn more.

Granular space creation restrictions now available in Google Chat

We are introducing a new admin setting in Google Chat that allows administrators to restrict specific users or groups from creating spaces, while continuing to permit them to create 1:1 direct messages (DMs) and group direct messages (gDMs). | Learn more.

Allowlisted Domains API now generally available

The Google Workspace Allowlisted Domains API is now generally available. Previously, administrators had to manage their allowlisted domains list manually through the Google Workspace Admin console. With this release, hosted under the Cloud Identity API suite as a top-level resource, organizations can securely automate and programmatically manage their list of allowlisted domains. | Learn more.

View Google Chat usage metrics in Gemini reports dashboard

Admins can now access Google Chat usage metrics in the Gemini reports dashboard across both organization- and user-level reports. | Learn more.

Record presentations in Google Slides with Google Vids

We are introducing a seamless way to record presentations in Google Slides using Google Vids directly from the Slides interface. Moving forward, you will see a new Record option in the right-hand menu of Slides. Selecting this option guides you through a streamlined recording workflow and outputs an immediately shareable link. | Learn more.

The announcements above were published on the Workspace Updates blog over the last week. Please refer to the original blog posts for complete details.

Important changes to Gemini side panel in Chat

Language availability

Getting started

Rollout pace

Availability