What’s changing
You can now import and convert sensitive Excel files into Google Sheets with client-side encryption. When collaborating with external and internal stakeholders, you may find yourself working across both Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel. This update keeps your work moving by layering interoperability on top of the privacy benefits of client-side encryption: users are in direct control of their encryption keys and the identity service that they choose to authenticate for those keys.
This feature was previously announced in August 2023 as part of an open beta.
Additional details
With this release:
You can only import .xslx Excel file types. Additional Excel and tabular file types are not supported. During import, unsupported Excel features in Sheets will be ignored. The maximum file size is 10MB. The maximum number of cells that can be imported is 10 million.
Getting started
Admins: Client-side encryption can be enabled at the domain, OU, and Group levels (Admin console > Security > Access and data control > Client-side encryption). Visit our Help Center to learn more about client-side encryption. End users: If client-side encryption is enabled by your admin, use our Help Center to learn more about working with encrypted files in Drive, Docs, Sheets & Slides.
Rollout pace
Rapid and Scheduled Release domains: Gradual rollout (up to 15 days for feature visibility) starting on February 26, 2024
Availability
Available to Google Workspace Enterprise Plus, Education Plus, and Education Standard customers
