This new feature, designed to make signing digital documents easier, is now available in beta for certain Google Workspace plans.
Users will have the option to ask for complete signatures or just initials. The system can also automatically generate the date when the document was signed.
Google has introduced built-in support for eSignatures in Docs and Drive, aiming to simplify the process of requesting and adding signatures directly within its cloud-based productivity tools. After over a year of alpha testing, Google is now rolling out the ability to request and apply eSignatures in beta.
Numerous software options, such as Dropbox and Adobe Acrobat, already provide eSignature capabilities. Google’s inclusion of this feature aims to align with its competitors rather than introduce novel concepts. This addition intends to reduce the need for users to switch between various apps and tabs while working on contracts, once the feature is fully implemented.
Users of Docs and Drive can now ask recipients for full signatures or initials, and a box is available to automatically fill in the signing date. The same template contract can generate multiple signature requests, with the added feature of tracking pending signature statuses. Initially, signature requests appear to be limited to Gmail users; Google has mentioned that the capability to request eSignatures from non-Gmail users will be introduced later this year.
While transitioning from alpha to beta, Google’s eSignature functionality will not immediately be accessible to all Workspace users. Workspace individual subscribers can expect an open beta of the feature within the next few weeks. On the other hand, Workspace Business or Enterprise subscribers will gain access only if their administrators request it through a designated form. Currently, there is no information regarding the availability of this feature for Google’s free personal accounts.
