Proton launches Google Docs rival with focus on privacy, security

Proton Docs

Proton Mail might be the choice of those who really value privacy and security and hasn’t really gone mainstream to overcome the might of Gmail. However, that's not stopping the company to offer Google alternatives. Proton is now taking on Google once again with the launch of its Google Docs rival with an emphasis on security and privacy.

In a blog post, Anant Vijay, senior product manager, Proton said, “We’re announcing a new end-to-end encrypted, collaborative document editor that puts your privacy first. Docs in Proton Drive are built on the same privacy and security principles as all our services, starting with end-to-end encryption.”

Proton wants to differentiate itself from other online tools with focus on privacy. Proton uses its open-source end-to-end encryption, which means you are the only one with the key to read and share your documents. Not even Proton can access your docs content or metadata (such as file names).

“The problem is that most companies offering document editors today are the same Big Tech companies that collect and monetise your private information,” said Vijay in the blog post.

Key features of Proton Docs

Docs, according to Proton, have been integrated into Proton Drive. The key features include:

Write with privacy

Users can create and edit documents within Proton Drive, knowing their contents are only accessible to them and those they choose to share with.

A collaborative effort

Like Google Docs, users can invite other users to view or edit your documents with a single click. Furthermore, changes are reflected immediately, ensuring every contributor always sees the most up-to-date version.

Other common features

Users can see who else is viewing or editing the document and add comments to share feedback without editing the document. Comments are visible to all collaborators, keeping everyone in the loop. Also, users can upload .docx documents, edit them, and download in various formats like .docx, .txt, .md, and HTML.