Google Drive preps 12 new categories for easier file management on your Pixel devices

Google is developing a new file management tool for Google Drive called “Categories.” This feature will allow users to assign files to multiple categories for easier sorting and retrieval, expanding on the existing “Labels” functionality currently available to Google Workspace users. Unlike Labels, the Categories feature will be available to all Google Drive users on Android, iOS, and web, including those with personal accounts.

According to a discovery made by AssembleDebug, the feature appears to be in its early stages of development. However, it seems users will have 12 default categories to choose from, namely Auto, Banking, Expenses, Home, IDs, Insurance, Medical, Pets, School, Taxes, Travel, and Work. The Categories section will likely be prominently placed on the “Home” tab within Google Drive for quick access. To categorize files, users will have to tap the three dots beside a file to open a context menu with a “Manage Categories” option. From there, one or more relevant categories can be selected.

Google Drive’s Categories feature is expected to be available across Android, iOS, and the web version, ensuring seamless syncing and access from any device. While still under development, the Categories feature could take some time to roll out across all platforms. Google often prioritizes iOS for new feature releases, and recent history suggests Android users might have to wait a bit longer for this new file management tool.

The Categories feature in Google Drive promises to simplify file management, making it significantly easier to locate specific documents within a potentially large collection of files. This level of organization can be a considerable time-saver and reduce frustration when searching for specific documents on your Pixel phone.