New sharing interface in Google Drive

May 26, 2020

Google has announced they are updating the interface you use to share files from Google Drive (Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Forms) on the web. This will replace the previous interface used to share files and manage members of shared drives.

GIF showing you how to access and use the new sharing interface/dialog in Google Drive.

Major changes include:

  • Separated, task-focused interface: The new sharing dialog highlights common tasks like sharing a file, changing permissions, and viewing file access. The redesign visually separates link sharing with people versus groups to help prevent accidental changes to link permissions.
  • Quick “Copy link” button: A “Copy link” button has been added to make it easier to get the link without worrying about accidentally changing link permissions. 
  • Easily see current access: The new interface more clearly shows who currently has access to the file, making it easier to quickly review and change permissions as needed. 

According to Google, this feature should begin showing up in U-M Google on May 26, 2020 and could take 15 days or longer to become fully visible.

To learn more about Drive sharing at U-M, see Best Practices for Sharing in Google Drive.