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4/8/21 Google Workspace Roundup: Updates that Matter Most

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Juan Morales

  • Updated September 22, 2026

Google Workspace Roundup (April 8, 2021)

Here are the key Google Workspace updates for April 8, 2021, featuring new tools for Google Docs, storage policy updates, and important admin controls.

1. Expanded Citation Tools in Google Docs

  • What’s New: Google Docs has added four new source options to its built-in citation tool: Film, TV Series, TV Episode, and Miscellaneous.

  • Supported Styles: Works across MLA (8th ed.), APA (7th ed.), and Chicago (17th ed.) styles.

  • How to Access: Open a document and go to Tools > Citations to select a style and build a bibliography.

  • Availability: Rolling out to all Workspace and G Suite accounts through late April 2021.

2. Auto-Save Beta for Google Workspace for Education

  • What’s New: A new beta feature automatically saves in-progress Google Forms and Quiz responses when users are logged into their Workspace account.

  • Why It Helps: Prevents students from losing progress during tests due to accidental window closures or connectivity issues.

  • How to Join: Education admins can apply to participate by filling out Google’s beta interest form.

  • Tip: Interested Google Workspace for Education Admins should fill out this form to express their desire to participate in the beta.

3. Revised Storage Policy Timeline

Google updated the implementation timeline for how files count against organizational storage quotas:

  • June 1, 2021: High-quality Google Photos begin counting toward Drive storage quotas (unchanged).

  • February 1, 2022: Newly created Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drawings, Forms, and Jamboard files will start counting toward Drive quotas.

    • Note: Existing files created before February 1, 2022, will not count toward storage unless modified after this date.

  • Admin Tip: Review your domain’s data usage via the Apps usage user report in the Admin console.

4. Third-Party API Blocking Settings

  • What’s New: Admins can now block all third-party APIs from accessing company Workspace data.

  • Important Security Impact: Enabling this setting adds a strong layer of protection, but it will prevent users from signing into third-party sites/apps using “Sign in with Google” and block all OAuth 2.0 scopes.

  • Custom Error Messages: Admins can customize the error message displayed to users when an access attempt is blocked.

  • Tip: For more information, see this article from Google.

Need guidance on these security settings or storage policies? Contact our Google Cloud Premier Partner team anytime for support!

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