Google has named the successors to Google Drive and the Google Photos desktop uploader. The heirs are split into consumer-level tools and enterprise solutions.

Backup and Sync

Backup and Sync is the consumer-targeted tool that Google says will ‘help everyday users back up files and photos from their computers, so they’re safe and accessible from anywhere’.

Sounds familiar? That’s because this new tool basically just an update to the Google Drive app that manages the cloud storage service of the same name.

The change might be intended to better distinguish between the cloud storage itself and the app that manages it.

The newly named version wins because it includes the photo toolset and what appear to be some extra sync options.

Drive File Stream

For enterprise clients on G Suite, Drive File Stream promises integration and simplification like Backup and Sync, but with extra features.

A primary selling point is the ability to stream files from a corporate cloud storage. This will allow users to access to resources without occupying local disk space.

Succession schedule

The Backup and Sync version of the Drive app is out for PC and Mac.

Drive File Stream is currently only available via G Suite’s Early Adopter Program. Broader availability, coming soon.

As Google differentiates offerings to consumers and businesses, is it getting easier or harder to choose which options work for your operation?

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