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Proton Launches Google Docs Rival with Enhanced Privacy Features

Lucas Nolan

3–4 minutes

Privacy-focused email and VPN company Proton has unveiled Proton Docs, a privacy-focused document editor that aims to provide users with a secure alternative to Google Docs.

The Verge reports that Proton, the company known for its encrypted email service, has expanded its suite of privacy-centric tools with the launch of Proton Docs. This new offering, which bears a striking resemblance to Google Docs in terms of interface and functionality, is designed to appeal to users who prioritize data privacy and security in their digital workspace.

The introduction of Proton Docs marks a significant step in the company’s evolution from a simple email client to a comprehensive suite of work tools. With this latest addition, Proton now offers a range of services including a calendar, file storage system, and password manager, positioning itself as a formidable competitor to established platforms like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

Proton Docs, which is currently available as part of Proton Drive, boasts an array of features that users have come to expect from modern document editors. These include rich text options, real-time collaborative editing, and multimedia support. While the initial release is optimized for desktop web browsers, Proton has confirmed plans to expand to other platforms in the future.

What sets Proton Docs apart from its competitors is its unwavering commitment to user privacy and security. The company claims that every aspect of the document creation process, including keystrokes and cursor movements, is protected by end-to-end encryption in real-time. This level of security is particularly appealing in an era where concerns about data privacy and the use of user-generated content for AI training are at an all-time high.

Will Moore, Proton’s PR manager, emphasized the company’s ambitious plans for the future, stating, “Everything that Google’s got is on our roadmap.” This declaration suggests that Proton is not content with simply offering a basic alternative but aims to match and potentially surpass the features provided by industry leaders.

The launch of Proton Docs comes on the heels of the company’s acquisition of Standard Notes in April, a move that has clearly influenced the development of this new product. However, Proton has assured users that Standard Notes will continue to exist as a separate entity, with Proton Docs borrowing some of its features.

Read more at the Verge here.

Next they will offer cloud service, and of course that's safe?

I feel that Google Docs is pretty secure. I am positive that a dedicated hacker could get into it pretty easily. I do not store SSN or bank routing on any of them.

Otherwise I feel they are good. I do have my applications and leases stored on my HDD as well as on PDFfiller where they are created.

Maybe I should look into how secure that is as well?