Each software update and upgrade moves you closer to your end goal – being able to do anything quickly from the same window or app on your device. That will save you a lot of time and effort, as you won’t have to switch to different apps and tabs and can focus on your work instead.
Not many users know that it is possible to do this with App Launcher for Google Drive. Here’s how to download the App Launcher extension for Chrome and start using it to do all your tasks without leaving Google Drive.
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What is an App Launcher for Drive?
Google Drive has many hidden features that can turn you into an advanced user and save you time when it comes to getting things done. You can take it even further by installing the App Launcher extension for Google Chrome.
An App Launcher is a browser add-on that allows you to open files from Google Drive using any software on your computer. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an Excel sheet or a picture you want Editing in Photoshop – as long as the software is compatible with Google Drive, the App Launcher add-on will let you open it.
If you don’t have the correct app installed on your device, App Launcher will suggest the right download for you. This all happens inside the same Google Drive window.
The only downside of this add-on is that it is only available for Google Chrome and not for any other browser.
How to install App Launcher for Drive
Before you can start using all your local apps from Google Drive, you need to install the App Launcher extension in your browser. To do that, follow the steps below.
- Open a new tab in Google Chrome.
- Find the Bookmarks menu at the top of your window and select Application.
- Option Online shop to open the Google Chrome Store.
- Use the Search tab to find App Launcher for Drive add.
- Option Add to Chrome to install the extension.
After enabling the extension in Chrome, you can start using it to open files from Google Drive.
How to use App Launcher for Google Drive
Using the App Launcher for Drive is easy. All you need to do is open Google Drivefind the file you want to open, right click on it and select Open with. You’ll see a number of Chrome apps and extensions that you can use to open this particular file.
If you want to use an application installed on your computer to open the file, select Open with > Applications on your computer. If you already have Backup and Sync installed, you’ll see a list of apps from your device that you can use to open your files.
If you don’t have it yet, you will get it New ways to work on files you save in Drive alternative message. Don’t worry, you will still be able to use the App Launcher for Drive after installing Google Backup and Sync on your device.
How to install Google Backup and Sync
To install Backup and sync on your device, select Download Backup and Sync in the pop-up window. Alternatively, go to Download Google Drive page, scroll down and select Backup and Sync > Download.
After you download it, open Backup and Sync and install it on your computer. The app will ask you to sign in to your Google account and select the folders and files from your computer that you want to sync and automatic backup into Google Drive.
After setting up Backup & Sync, you can start using it with the App Launcher to open files in Google Drive. Open the file in Google Drive, select Open withand select the application from the computer that you want to use to open this file.
How to use App Launcher on your smartphone
You can use the App Launcher for Drive on both your computer and smartphone. Thanks to the App Launcher, you will be able to open your files with the apps you have installed on your smartphone right from Google Drive.
To use the App Launcher on your smartphone, follow the steps below.
- Open Google Drive on your phone.
- Find the file you want to open and select the three vertical dots next to it to open it Menu.
- Scroll down and select Open with.
- You will see a list of apps that you have installed on your smartphone that are compatible with Google Drive. Select the application you want to use to open your file.
To get back to Google Drive, use the back button on your smartphone. All the changes you will make in your files using the App Launcher and your local apps will be automatically saved in Google Drive.
Launch any of your apps from Google Drive in Chrome
App Launcher for Drive is a great Chrome extension that can make your life easier. For those who use Google Drive a lot for work or other purposes, this add-on can help narrow down the constant list of apps they use with all one click. If you later decide to get rid of it, you can easily disable this add-on by removing the App Launcher from Google Chrome extensions.
Have you used the App Launcher for Drive before? Which other Google Chrome extension do you find most useful? Share your experience with Google Chrome add-ons in the comments section below.
