Google to Sunset Tables, Competing with Airtable
Google has announced the impending shutdown of Google Tables, its work-tracking tool designed to compete with Airtable. In a recent communication to users, the tech giant revealed that support for the app will cease after December 16, 2025. Users are encouraged to export their data to Google Sheets or migrate it to AppSheet, depending on their specific needs. Launched in 2020, Google Tables aimed to enhance project tracking through automation, but it will soon join the list of discontinued services as Google refines its focus on core offerings.
Background and Development of Google Tables
Google Tables was introduced in 2020 as part of Google’s experimental app incubator, Area 120. The tool was designed to streamline project management and improve efficiency through automation. Initially launched as a beta product, Tables quickly gained traction, leading Google to promote it to an official Google Cloud offering in 2021. At that time, the company envisioned Tables as a versatile solution for various applications, including project management, IT operations, customer service tracking, and more. The app was developed by Tim Gleason, a long-time Google employee who later transitioned to a different role within the company.
Despite its promising start, Google Tables faced challenges as Area 120 underwent significant restructuring in 2022. The company decided to cut half of its projects and reduce the workforce within the division. This shift aimed to concentrate efforts on artificial intelligence initiatives, leaving many experimental projects, including Tables, in uncertain positions.
Transition Plans for Users
In light of the upcoming shutdown, Google has provided guidance for Tables users on how to manage their data. The company recommends exporting data directly to Google Sheets, where users can continue to manage their workflows using tables and conditional notifications. Alternatively, users can utilize a new migration tool to transfer their data to AppSheet, Google’s no-code platform. This option allows users to maintain formatting, such as column types and relationships, while enabling them to manage workflows with automation and fine-grained permissions.
Google has also highlighted that the team behind Tables has developed a new data experience within AppSheet. This feature, launched in June 2023, allows users to create data models for custom applications and workflows directly within the platform. By directing users to this new solution, Google aims to ensure a smooth transition for those who relied on Tables for their project management needs.
The Future of Area 120 and Google’s Product Strategy
The closure of Google Tables marks a significant moment for Area 120, which has faced considerable downsizing and project cancellations in recent years. Following the reorganization in 2022, the division was tasked with focusing primarily on AI projects, leading to the discontinuation of many experimental tools. In 2023, Area 120 was officially wound down, with only a few projects transitioning to core Google product areas.
Despite the challenges faced by Area 120, Google Tables managed to survive the initial cuts, becoming part of the Google Workspace team under Google Cloud. However, the announcement of its end-of-life date signals a shift in Google’s strategy, prioritizing core products and services over experimental tools. As Google continues to refine its offerings, users will need to adapt to the changes and explore alternative solutions within the Google ecosystem.
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