Google Workspace Changes

Upgrade to the newest version of the Google Chat Progressive Web Application (PWA).

Google is requiring users of the Google Chat Progressive Web Application (PWA) to upgrade to the latest version to ensure continued functionality. Users on older versions will see an in-app banner instructing them to uninstall the old version and visit chat.google.com to install the new one. Starting September 27, 2021, older versions of the Chat PWA will no longer be accessible, and users will be directed to the upgrade screen.

New iOS Data Protection setting for Google Chat restricts data sharing between Google Workspace and personal Google accounts.

Google is expanding its iOS data protection settings to include Google Chat, allowing administrators to restrict the sharing or saving of content—such as chat messages and files—between Google Workspace accounts and personal Google accounts. This measure helps minimize accidental data sharing and increases the security of corporate data on iOS devices.

Google Chat 'Rooms' are now 'Spaces'

Starting September 8, 2021, Google Chat 'Rooms' are evolving into 'Spaces'. Users who have enabled Chat in their Gmail settings will see the term 'Rooms' automatically updated to 'Spaces'. This change is part of a broader evolution to improve collaboration, with future updates planned to include in-line topic threading, discoverable spaces, and enhanced user roles and moderation.

Google Chat introduces a Tenor integration for searching and sharing GIFs with admin controls.

Google Chat is introducing a new integration with Tenor, allowing users to quickly search for and send GIFs on the web via a new GIF icon in the compose bar. Additionally, administrators can enable or disable this integration through the Admin console under Apps > Google Workspace > Settings for Google Chat > GIFs.