Google Docs has recently announced the integration of third-party app “smart chips”. This exciting feature is now available to Google Workspace users and personal Google account holders. As part of Google’s “smart canvas” revamp, which includes a pageless layout for Google Docs, the introduction of third-party smart chips aims to enhance the overall user experience and promote seamless collaboration within documents.
Utilizing Third-Party Smart Chips
To benefit from the functionality of third-party smart chips, users are required to install the relevant app’s add-on from the Google Workspace Marketplace. Once the add-on is installed, a shareable link from the third-party app can be easily copied and pasted into a Google Doc. Then, by simply pressing the tab key, the smart chip is inserted into the document. This smart chip provides a preview of the app’s information and work status, allowing collaborators to quickly grasp the progress of a particular project without leaving the document.
Customizable Implementation by Developers
The implementation of smart chips varies depending on the developer. For instance, Figma’s smart chip enables users to integrate interactive previews of Figma and FigJam files into Google Docs, allowing teammates to conveniently reference the latest designs and project work within the context of the document. On the other hand, the Atlassian Cloud add-on facilitates the attachment of relevant Jira issues, enabling users to track them within a working Doc.
A test user swiftly set up the integration with Figma within minutes. By pasting the link, they were able to hover over it and, after a moment, a preview image of the project emerged, displaying the creator and the most recent update. This feature not only simplifies the process of referencing external content but also enhances visibility, thereby empowering team members to stay informed within the collaborative document.
The integration of third-party smart chips is expected to revolutionize collaboration among team members by simplifying communication and facilitating the tracking of project progress. This functionality significantly reduces the need to switch between multiple applications, thereby maximizing productivity and efficiency. With smart chips, users can seamlessly access relevant information and resources, eliminating unnecessary disruptions that can hinder the workflow.
Google Docs’ integration of third-party app functionality through smart chips is undoubtedly a welcome addition to the platform. By empowering users to effortlessly collaborate and track project progress within a single document, Google aims to foster a more streamlined and productive work environment. With this innovative feature, team members can concentrate their efforts on strategic tasks without the distraction of switching between various applications, ultimately advancing efficiency and enabling seamless collaboration.
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