Google Rolls Out Free Quickoffice for iPad with Google Apps Integration
Google has officially launched a free Quickoffice app for iPad, exclusively for Google Apps for Business customers. This strategic move empowers professionals to seamlessly view, edit, and create Microsoft Office files (Word, Excel, PowerPoint 1997-2010) while leveraging Google Drive for cloud storage. The company also confirmed that Android and iPhone versions are currently in development.
Why This Matters for Business Users
- Native Office File Support: Edit documents without conversion, preserving complex elements like charts and pivot tables
- Google Drive Integration: All files automatically sync to the cloud for secure access across devices
- Cost Efficiency: Free access for Google Apps for Business subscribers (vs. $7.99 for standard Quickoffice Pro HD)
Behind the Technology: Google’s Quickoffice Acquisition
Google’s June 2012 acquisition of Quickoffice has already borne fruit. The company has integrated Quickoffice’s conversion technology into Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides, significantly improving Microsoft Office file compatibility. This addresses a longstanding pain point where complex formatting elements were previously lost during conversion.
“While converting to Google formats enables optimal collaboration,” a Google spokesperson noted, “we recognize many teams still work with Office files. Quickoffice provides the perfect bridge.”
Competitive Landscape Heats Up
The launch comes on the same day compe***** CloudOn released version 3.0 of its mobile Office solution. Key differentiators:
| Feature | Google Quickoffice | CloudOn 3.0 |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Availability | iPad (Android/iPhone coming) | iPhone, iPad, Android |
| Cloud Services | Google Drive | Drive, Dropbox, Box, Skydrive |
| Pricing | Free for Google Apps users | Freemium model |
Strategic Implications
This release signals Google’s commitment to:
- Enterprise Mobility: Enhancing productivity for on-the-go professionals
- Microsoft Compatibility: Reducing friction for mixed-ecosystem teams
- Cloud-First Workflows: Tightening integration between mobile apps and Google Drive
While the standard $7.99 Quickoffice Pro HD remains available, Google’s free offering for business users creates compelling value for organizations invested in the Google ecosystem.
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