Google Unveils Two $10 AI Add-Ons for Workspace: A New Path to Monetization

The impact of AI on individual productivity remains a topic of discussion, but companies are increasingly seeking to monetize these technologies by integrating advanced AI capabilities into their software. Last year, Microsoft made headlines with its announcement that the addition of Copilot would increase the Office 365 subscription cost by $30 per user each month. Developing and maintaining these advanced features entails significant expenses, which customers will inevitably have to shoulder.

At Google Cloud Next, Google mirrored Microsoft's strategy by unveiling two $10 per user per month add-on packages for its Google Workspace productivity suite.

The first add-on enhances meetings and messaging with features such as automatic note-taking, meeting summaries, and content translation across 69 languages. “We’re adding 52 new languages—including Filipino and Korean—to enhance Meet’s translation capabilities. Now, our total language support climbs to 69,” shared Aparna Pappu, VP & GM at Google Workspace.

Additionally, Google introduced an AI-powered security package designed to help administrators safeguard Google Workspace content. This includes tools for classifying sensitive files, protecting confidential information, and implementing data loss prevention controls tailored to specific organizational needs.

While a $10 per user fee may seem steep—especially considering the base price of Workspace without these enhancements—it remains competitive with comparable features from third-party services. Google also offers flexibility; customers can select specific license types and apply advanced features selectively where they bring the most value.

Notably, Google has plans for further enhancements to the meeting add-on, including generative AI custom backgrounds, where users can describe a desired backdrop and the AI will create it, as well as improved studio-quality lighting, video clarity, and sound. These features are expected within the next couple of months.

These two AI add-ons are now available for Google Workspace subscribers.

Tags:

AI, Enterprise, Google Workspace, Google Cloud Next 2024, Workspace add-ons