Google Drive is receiving several updates that improve the usability of the cloud-based storage platform. The tech giant is adding new encoding to improve playback speed and rebuffering of videos played on Drive. We’ve also improved search functionality on iOS and added query filters to help users quickly find the files they want. Additionally, Google increases the timing of BigQuery and Looker on linked pages. This feature was released last week.
The new feature was announced in a Google Workspace blog post. Commenting on the video streaming improvements, the tech giant says: “For every new video uploaded to Google Drive, you can now create and play a dynamic adaptive stream via HTTP Video Passphrase (DASH). DASH Passphrase offers adaptive bitrate playback, users say.” Can be played at a higher or lower resolution depending on aspects such as the quality of the local network.
This causes the user to see two changes. First, it’s time to participate in the video. This indicates how long it takes from clicking the play button to the video starting. Second, users will notice less rebuffering when playing videos. Currently, the change only applies to new videos uploaded to Google Drive. However, the company says that encryption will be applied to existing videos by the end of the year.
Search in Drive is also being updated, but is currently only available to iOS users. Users have access to query filters while searching. These appear just below the search bar and allow users to narrow their search results by selecting file type, owner, or last modified date. As you type your search term, related filters will appear so you can easily select a filter. Additionally, Google has also added an option to limit search results after querying to retrieve desired files. The company says this feature will soon be available on Android.
These features are available to Google Workspace business customers, Google Workspace subscribers, and individual account holders. The tech giant has already shipped the feature and is expected to roll it out to all users worldwide in the next few days.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
