Proton launches a privacy-focused Google Docs rival

Swiss technology company Proton, known for its privacy-focused online services, is preparing to challenge industry giants Google and Microsoft with the launch of Proton Docs, a privacy-focused alternative to Google Docs.

From its inception, Proton Docs feels familiar. The online document editor is designed to offer an experience akin to Google Docs, featuring white pages, a top toolbar, and real-time collaboration. But there’s one significant difference, Proton Docs is built with privacy at its core. Every document, keystroke, and even cursor movement is protected by end-to-end encryption, meaning not even Proton can access your content.

Proton Docs is the latest addition to the Proton suite, which already includes Proton Mail, Calendar, Drive, and a Password Manager. Launched within Proton Drive, this new tool brings rich text editing, real-time collaborative editing, and support for multimedia embeds.

Proton Docs also offers compatibility with multiple formats, including Microsoft’s .docx, ensuring integration with your existing files. Plus, it’s currently available as a web-only application optimized for desktops, with plans to expand to other platforms soon.

Proton’s foray into document editing follows its acquisition of Standard Notes, an encrypted notes app, earlier this year. This strategic move seems to be paying off, as Proton Docs borrows some of Standard Notes' best features, like full markdown support and code blocks.

But Proton isn’t stopping there, they’ve already hinted at tackling spreadsheets next. With these expansions, its user base is predicted to surpass its 100 million+ current users according to the company's data.