Google Docs is one of the best free cloud-based word processing tools available. Did you know you can use Google Docs offline on your PC, Mac, or smartphone? Yes, you can – despite the tool working on cloud services, Google lets you edit or create documents offline.
In this article, we want to show you how you can do it. Not just Google Docs – but you can also work on Slides and Sheets offline. You can create, save, and even edit the document in an existing session without an internet connection. Further, you can also access documents in Google Docs without an internet connection.
The only caveat is that you can work on Google Docs without the internet only on Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge on your desktop since you need to install an extension from the Chrome Webstore. Therefore, ensure you have the web browser installed.
Also Read: How to use AI writing tool in Google Docs
How to Work on Google Docs Offline in Chrome on Windows and Mac
First, you need to install the extension from the Chrome Webstore that lets you use Google Docs without the internet. Download and install the extension using the link below.
Note: Recently, Microsoft seems to have pre-installed the extension with Edge. So, you may notice that the extension has already been installed.
Once done, enable offline editing mode for documents linked to your Google Account.
Step 1: Sign into Google Drive with your account. Click on the gear icon and select Settings.
Step 2: Check the box to use Google Docs in offline mode.
That is it. Now all you need to do is open Google Docs or Slides/Sheets on Chrome, which will work offline. For easier access, we recommend adding a bookmark for Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides on Chrome.
In offline mode, Google Docs will open in the account that previously opened a document while online. So, the specific account depends on what was last used when you had internet access. If you haven’t opened any docs since enabling offline access, the Chrome profile you’re currently using will determine the account.
Make Google Docs Available Offline
With the offline mode on Google Docs, only a few recently opened documents can be accessed without an internet connection. If you must access a specific document offline, click on the three dots icon and select the ‘Enable Offline Access’ option.
How to Use Google Docs Offline on Android and iPhone
Thankfully, you can download the Google Docs, Slides, or Sheets app on your smartphone and create and work on a document without an internet connection.
Use the links below to download Google’s suite of productivity apps on your iPhone:
Use the links below to download Google’s suite of apps on your Android device:
You can also access recent files offline:
Step 1: Open the Google Docs app and tap on the profile icon in the top right corner.
Step 2: Go to Docs settings and turn on the toggle for ‘Make recent files available offline’.
Moreover, if you want to enable offline access for specific documents – navigate to the document, tap on the three dots icon, and select ‘Make available offline’.
Note: The above two settings are account-specific and will only reflect in the account you’ve signed into on the apps.
That is everything you need to know about using Google Docs offline. If you have any further questions, look at the FAQ section below.
FAQs About Using Google Docs Offline
1. Can I collaborate on Google Docs offline?
No, you can’t share or accept collaboration requests for documents while working on them offline. Further, any changes collaborators make will be reflected in the document once you are online.
2. How do I sync changes made in Google offline when I’m back online?
Once you reconnect to the internet, Google Docs will automatically sync the changes you’ve made offline with your online account.
3. How much storage does Google Docs offline use?
Google Docs offline doesn’t consume much storage on your device. Documents are cached locally for offline access but generally take minimal space.
4. Can I share documents while using Google Docs offline?
While offline, you can’t share new documents or change sharing settings. These actions require an internet connection.
No Internet, No Problem
We hope this article helps you use Google Docs offline on all your devices. Features like these are what set Google Docs apart. Even though Microsoft has a similar cloud-based productivity suite called Office 365 online, Google Docs is the go-to choice for many.
However, we hope Google releases offline versions of apps on Windows and Mac, similar to the iPhone and Android apps.
Categories: How to
Source: thpttranhungdao.edu.vn/en/
