New usability features in Connected Sheets

Google Workspace is introducing two usability enhancements to Connected Sheets to improve data presentation and give more flexibility when analyzing BigQuery data.

List parameters: When writing a query, users can reference multiple values in a single list parameter by selecting a grid range in a sheet. Each cell will function as a unique value in the list. This enables more flexible or robust querying based on values already in the sheet. For example, this feature allows data admins and power users to configure input sheets that allow collaborators or end users to easily select options via drop-down or in the sheet for advanced filtering without needing to modify the underlying query. As a result, more users can independently self-serve insights and interact with Connected Sheets.

Column aliasing: Users can create aliases for BigQuery column names directly within the Connected Sheet. Database column names can sometimes be unwieldy or lack contextual information for broader audience readability. Aliasing provides a way to substitute presentation-ready labels in the Connected Sheets interface without altering the underlying database reference. Users can continue to refer to columns by either the new alias or the original name in formulas and inputs.

Getting started

Admins: There is no admin control for this feature.
End users: There is no end user setting for this feature. Visit the Help Center to learn more about using BigQuery data in Google Sheets.

Rollout pace

Rapid Release and Scheduled Release domains: Rolling out now, with expected completion by August 15, 2026

Availability

Available to all Google Workspace customers and users with personal Google accounts

Resources

Google Docs Editors Help: Get started with BigQuery data in Google Sheets

Google Workspace has introduced two major usability enhancements to Connected Sheets to streamline BigQuery data presentation and provide flexible analysis: [1, 2]

1. List Parameters

When drafting a query, you can now reference multiple values in a single list parameter by selecting a grid range directly inside a sheet. [1]

Cell Autonomy: Every individual cell in your selected range functions as a unique value in the parameter list.
No SQL Edits Required: Power users and data admins can build drop-down menus or designated input ranges.
Self-Service Insights: End users can filter deep BigQuery datasets on the fly without ever altering the underlying query logic. [1]

2. Column Aliasing

You can now assign custom aliases to BigQuery column names straight from the Connected Sheets interface. [1]

Clean Presentation: Substitute cryptic, rigid, or long database column codes with clear, presentation-ready labels for your team.
Zero Database Impact: Aliasing changes only the display layout without modifying your foundational database structures.
Flexible Logic: You can continue using either the original system name or your new alias interchangeably inside spreadsheet formulas and inputs. [1]

Recent Upgrades (Late 2025)

These updates build on other recent analytical enhancements rolled out for BigQuery-backed pivot tables: [3]

Doubled Capacity: Row capacity expanded from 100,000 to 200,000 rows in a single pivot table for wider data scaling.
Granular Drill-Downs: You can double-click any pivot table cell (or right-click > Show details) to generate an instant, pre-configured extract of the exact records making up that summary metric. [3]