14 DAY TRIAL // Google has introduced an option that many Docs users have been wanting for almost a year now, the possibility of converting documents saved in the old format to the new editor introduced last year. This will enable users to get all of the benefits of the new app, though it still means some functionality may be lost.
"Almost a year ago, we introduced a new version of the document editor," Jeff Harris, Product Manager at Google, wrote.
"Since launch, the new editor has been available only for newly created documents. Beginning today, we’re testing a new feature that lets you convert an old document to the new editor," he announced.
"If you’re the owner of a document made in the old editor, you may now receive a notice at the top of your document giving you the option to preview the document in the new editor," he added.
This has been one of the most awaited features for many users and one of the biggest disappointments when the new editor launched. But Google couldn't offer the ability to convert documents to the new format at launch because the new editor was not on par and didn't offer all of the functionality or features the old one did.
It had plenty of advantages, but this were mostly about the technology about it and for collaboration. In terms of actual features, the new editor was a step back.
Things have gotten better in the meantime, as Google added more features, but there are still a few things missing. At this point though, Google is confident enough to start enabling users to convert their documents.
You have to update each document manually, but this was done to ensure that you don't make any changes that you may regret later. You get to preview the document and if you're happy with the changes you can update it. You will lose all of the revisions and maybe some formatting, but on the whole the experience should be pain free.