Google Drive introduces new file locking feature to enhance user control and security

Google has revealed a new feature that allows users to lock files in Google Drive. The process involves right-clicking the file, selecting “File Information”, and then clicking “Lock”. Once a file is locked, reviewers are prevented from making any changes. This includes the addition of edits, comments, or suggestions to the locked files.

The update is aimed at simplifying and streamlining the process of restricting files in Drive. Prior to this, the only ways to restrict files were either through the Google Drive API or via file approvals.

It's important to highlight that similar functionality has been available in competitor platforms, like Nextcloud, for several years. Google's addition of this feature appears to be an effort to stay competitive in the market of online storage and collaboration tools.