Google updates Docs app for Android tablets

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER Google has updated its Google Docs app for Android devices to make use of the extra screen space on tablets.

Google's updated Google Docs app allows Android tablet owners running Honeycomb or above to have a considerably modified layout that the firm says makes better use of the increased screen space available on tablets.

David Loxton, product manager at Google said, "With an entirely new design, we've customized the look to make the most of the larger screen space on tablets. The layout includes a three-panel view, which allows you to navigate through filters and collections, view your document list, and see document details, all at once."

Google also claimed that the auto-complete feature makes it easier to share documents, though some are complaining that there is still a lack of collaboration features in the Android version of Google Docs.

Although Google's update might seem minor in the grand scheme of things, it highlights the differences between smartphones and tablets and how apps are viewed on each type of device. Effective use of screen space is not really about making on-screen objects bigger or cramming in more information, but how to navigate, display and aggregate information in a sensible and useful manner.

Google said it has made its Google Docs for Android tablets update available in 46 languages. µ