Updated March 1, 2025
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Last week the Mountain View giant notified their Google Apps users and resellers that the free version of Google Apps was eliminated. If you’re already on the free bandwagon, don’t worry you’re golden. The change affects only those who sign up after December 7. As a Google Apps reseller, we think it’s still a very affordable alternative for businesses. I’ll explain why Google made this business decision and the slew of benefits included in their non-free package.
So, why the Google Apps change?
The answer is simple. Focus on better services and support. Under the free version some customers found it near impossible to get help. In typical Google fashion, you were directed to forums and other impersonal ways to trouble-shoot your problem. When you’ve got glitches in your email, you want immediate help… not having to hunt around for potential fixes while your business grinds to a standstill. The Google Apps free version also made it messier for resellers to upgrade users.
Discontinuing free Google Apps is just one more in a string of house cleaning efforts. As I mentioned back in October, they are on a mission to clean-up and consolidate their product offerings.
Still a Great Deal
For $50 per user per year, you still get a great deal. Google Apps for Businesses includes 24/7 phone support for issues that affect core services like custom email addresses, business controls, video chat, document editing, etc. It also includes 25 GB inbox, unlimited users, and a 99.9% up-time guarantee. If you want business-critical data archiving, data retrieval (for investigations), or ability to export company-wide data, then you’re looking at the $10 user/month level.
One last note: if you haven’t tried Google Drive, you’re missing out. It’s a simple way to store your files in the cloud. Share as well as access them from any device from anywhere. From a business continuity and collaboration standpoint, it makes perfect cents.
Content Marketing Writer’s Block