14 DAY TRIAL // Productivity application developer, Avatron Software, has released an updated version of its pioneering file-sharing app, Air Sharing 2.7. The new version brings Google Docs support that enables iOS users to access and view files stored on Google’s online document management platform.
Air Sharing is optimized for the iPhone and iPad screens, unlike typical browser-based access tools for the Google Docs platform.
With it, iPhone and iPad users can view, share, copy and even print files, spanning word processing, spreadsheets and presentation files.
Viewing Google Docs files can be done in other apps too, such as opening a spreadsheet on a dedicated spreadsheet app. Files can be copied to other file servers, such as iDisk, WebDAV, DropBox, Box or FTP servers.
"Google Docs is extremely popular and especially well-suited for small businesses, nonprofits and educators—groups that need powerful collaboration tools that also fit their very tight budgets," said Avatron CEO Dave Howell.
"And, in today's world, mobile access is a must. Navigating Google Docs on a mobile device can be quite cumbersome, but the new Air Sharing app solves that problem by making it simple and comfortable to access and view Google Docs files from anywhere," Howell added.
The solution is said to be ideal for SMB and nonprofit use, as well as in classrooms where it becomes a powerful educational tool on iPads.
As pointed out by RBC Capital analyst Mike Abramsky earlier today, iPad usage in the classroom is growing.
As such, teachers looking to incorporate the latest technology to enhance the learning experience have a natural choice to make, according to Nancy Parker, Gamma Resource Teacher and Co-team Leader at Thomas Middle School in Arlington Heights, Ill.
Google Docs is Parker’s platform of choice as she frequently shares files and resources with fellow faculty members and students.
"Typical middle schoolers either have their own personal iPhone or iPad or have access to one through the school," Parker said.
"Now, we must show students how to use these devices not just for fun, but for educational purposes as well. The Air Sharing app enables easy access to the kind of dynamic materials required to support a 21st century educational experience."