Google to bolster Apps, not the price

Google's Enterprise Unit chief, David Girouard, was coy about exactly what new features and apps to expect in its Web-hosted Apps software suite. But on one point, he didn't hedge. While Apps is slated to gain new functionality, its price will likely remain unchanged for enterprise users.

Girouard, who this IDG News story says made the remarks during a presentation at the Pacific Crest Technology Leadership Forum, emphasized that Google's intent is on adding value, not expense. Currently, Google offers a free, ad-supported Apps version for individuals and small businesses, and a Premier enterprise version that costs $50 per user per year.

Both versions offer Gmail, word processor, calendar, spreadsheet, and presentation programs, but Apps Premier also has IT management tools and APIs for integration with other software.

While Girouard declined to provide specifics about just what might be added to Apps, he did say the focus would be on collaborative features and not on offering a Microsoft Office clone. And that's a good thing. While Microsoft struggles with finding the right mix of on-premises and cloud-based software, Google can focus on what it does right: Providing key collaborative desktop applications for enterprise users anywhere, anytime.

UPDATE: Audio clips of Girouard's remarks are available at TechCrunch.