Google Launches Presentation Software to Docs and Spreadsheets at TechCrunch40
by John Paczkowski
Posted on September 18, 2007 at 11:10 AM PT
After today’s first session of TechCrunch40 on productivity and Web applications, Google announced it was launching a Web-based collaborative presentation tool to go with its Docs and Spreadsheets.
No big surprises from the company, though. Jen Mazzon, product manager of Google Docs, took the stage to announce the company’ presentation application to its online Google Docs and Spreadsheets office suite. The new app allows simultaneous editing by several users. No word on whether it tracks changes–clearly a desirable feature for multiple-contributor presentations.
An audience member asks about security, noting that companies may be loath to host important documents online for fear they might be pilfered. Mazzon pauses for a moment and then suggests users not share their passwords–not the most compelling of answers.
TechCrunch’s Michael Arrington added a controversial element by asking about Yahoo’s acquisition of Zimbra yesterday. Mazzon dodges: “I think it’s great. The Internet’s a big place. The more competition the better. I know that sounds trite, but I really believe that…”
Conference co-sponsor Jason Calacanis notes that Google Docs and Spreadsheets isn’t yet a good solution for hardcore Excel users. Mazzon says Google Docs and Spreadsheets wasn’t designed for power users. That said, she noted that the company is always improving it.
Another audience member asks about data backup: “I know we don’t have a financial or contractual arrangement, but what happens if you lose my data?” Mazzon says that won’t happen. Google is rigorous in backing data up. No comment on contractual/liability issues.
