Jul 04, 2024 10:35:00

Proton launches alternative to Google Docs

Proton , a company that provides encrypted messaging and cloud storage services, has announced an online document editor that is similar to Google Docs, with basic features such as collaborative editing and formatting, and end-to-end encryption.

Introducing Docs in Proton Drive – collaborative document editing that's actually private | Proton
https://proton.me/blog/docs-proton-drive

Proton Docs is a privacy-focused answer to Google Docs and Microsoft Word - The Verge

https://www.theverge.com/2024/7/3/24190732/proton-docs-document-editor-privacy-google

Proton's document editor is a service that allows individuals to create documents, share documents with others, collaborate in real time, leave comments, add photos, and store files securely. The service is end-to-end encrypted, and even keystrokes and cursor movements are encrypted.

Proton's document editor has been introduced as a feature of the cloud storage service 'Proton Drive.' The feature has already been released to some users, and will be available to all users within a few days.

Proton has stated its view that 'most companies that provide these services collect personal information from users,' and that 'with services such as Google Docs, users no longer have control over the data collected, and it could even be used to train AI models that violate privacy. Major document editors do not protect data by default with end-to-end encryption, which could expose third parties or governments to access.'

Proton's document editor is introduced as a tool that can dispel these concerns. According to Proton, end-to-end encryption ensures that only the creator can view and share documents, and even the service provider Proton cannot access the content or metadata (such as file names). In addition, the servers are located in Switzerland, which is protected by strict privacy laws, so it is considered more secure than services based in the United States, where legal data protection is weak.