Google has introduced a new shortcut in Drive that makes it easier for Workspace users to edit videos without needing to open them manually. When previewing a video saved in Drive, users will now see an “Open” button at the top right corner of the screen. Clicking this button launches the file directly in Google Vids, where users can make simple edits such as trimming clips, adding text overlays, inserting music, and more.
The feature aims to simplify the editing process by eliminating extra steps, allowing users to work on their videos more efficiently. This update is part of Google’s ongoing effort to make its Workspace tools more user-friendly, particularly for those who frequently work with video content.
Rollout and admin controls
The shortcut began rolling out on 21 August and is expected to take more than two weeks to reach all Workspace users. By default, it is enabled for everyone, although Workspace organisation administrators can turn off the feature if needed. Google said the update is designed to provide a smoother editing experience while still allowing companies to manage features according to their own policies.
This change is particularly beneficial for teams and individuals working on collaborative video projects, as it enables them to make quick adjustments without needing to switch between multiple apps or tools.
Part of wider Drive improvements
The introduction of the shortcut continues Google’s efforts to enhance video functionality within Drive. In October last year, the company launched a redesigned video player for the platform, improving playback performance and usability. More recently, in May, Google introduced a Gemini AI-powered tool that summarises videos stored in Drive, making it easier for users to review and manage large amounts of video content.
By integrating these features, Google is positioning Drive as more than just a storage solution, turning it into a more dynamic platform for managing, editing, and interacting with multimedia files. The combination of streamlined editing, improved playback, and AI-driven summaries demonstrates Google’s push to create a seamless video workflow within its Workspace ecosystem.
