Google Workspace services are now available to all users for free

Google decided open their Workspace (formerly G Suite) services for all users with a Google account. This means you no longer need to have a corporate profile to use the advanced features of Gmail, Drive, Docs, Sheets, Meet, and other company products.

For example, now all users will have access to such features as smart tips in emails or documents, the ability to easily mention another user (@user) to add to the task, and also share documents, spreadsheets, or presentation slides while on a Google Meet call.

Also, with the opening of the Workspace, the new Google Chat (former Hangouts) becomes available to all users. You will need to activate it yourself in Gmail. To do this, open the mail page in a browser, click on the settings gear in the upper right corner, select "All settings", go to the "Chat and appointments" tab and there in the chat settings select Google Chat. Save your changes.

After this configuration, the Gmail interface will change slightly. Chats and Rooms will appear in the left menu, and your status will now be displayed next to the profile icon at the top. The right block will still display icons for auxiliary applications and services, as well as a button for adding extensions, including those adapted for Workspace.

The bulk of the feature is becoming free for everyone, but the company is also introducing a paid version called Google Workspace Individual. It targets small business owners and provides “premium features including services smart booking, professional video conferencing, personalized email marketing and much more. " Individual will soon be available in the US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, Brazil and Japan.