How to install and use the BioRender for Google Slides Add-on

BioRender is now available for Google Slides, making it easier to enhance your presentations with scientific figures. Learn how to install the add-on, sign in, and begin inserting figures using either linked or editable formats.

How to install the Add-on:

1. Access the BioRender Add-on:
   • Use this link to access the BioRender for Google Slides Add-on through Google Workspace Marketplace.
2. Get the Add-on:
   • Click “Install”.
   • A pop-up will appear titled “Get ready to install”. Click Continue to grant permission to install the add-on.

• Sign in using your organizational or personal Google account (if prompted).
• After completing the prompts, you’ll see a confirmation message “BioRender has been installed.” Click on “Done” to finish the installation.

3. Get started:
   • Congratulations! The BioRender Add-on is now ready to use. You begin inserting and updating BioRender figures directly into your Google Slides presentations.

How to use the Add-on:

1. Create a new Google Slides document or open an existing one

2. Open add-in via the “Extensions” tab > “BioRender” > “Open Sidebar”

   

3. Log in to your BioRender account

   

4. Start adding figures as either a linked image or an editable image

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Formats for Google Slides

With the BioRender Add-on for Google Slides, you can insert illustrations into your presentation in two formats: Linked image or Editable image. Each serves a different purpose depending on how you’d like to work with your illustrations.

1. Insert as a linked image

Purpose: Add BioRender illustrations as high-quality, non-editable images.

Key Features:

• High-resolution export:
  • 300 DPI by default

  • 72 DPI for posters (to help manage file size)

    

• Supports transparent backgrounds
• Auto-hyperlink back to the original BioRender illustration
• Automatically scales to fit your slide layout
• Auto-update supported: If the illustration is updated in BioRender, you’ll see the option in Google Slides to apply the latest version and replace the existing image

2. Insert as Editable Figures

Purpose: Add illustrations as fully editable components within your slide deck.

Key Features:

• Decomposed elements: BioRender illustrations are broken down into individual, editable components such as icons, shapes, and text boxes
• Limitations to keep in mind:
  • Auto-update is not supported for editable figures
  • These figures are marked as “Unlinked” in the BioRender side panel
  • Transparent backgrounds are not available in this format

Enabling Third-Party Cookies for the BioRender Add-on

To have a seamless experience using the BioRender for Google Slides Add-on, please ensure that third-party cookies are enabled in your browser.

If third-party cookies are blocked, you will experience an extra button click when inserting figures. 

For Google Chrome:

1. Open Chrome and click the three dots (⋮) in the top-right corner → Settings.
2. Go to Privacy and security→ Cookies and other site data.
3. Select "Allow all cookies".

For Safari:

1. Go to Safari → Settings → Privacy.
2. Uncheck “Prevent cross-site tracking.”
3. Reload your Google Slides tab.

For Firefox:

1. Click the menu button (☰) → Settings → Privacy & Security.
2. Under Enhanced Tracking Protection, select "Standard" mode.
3. Refresh your Google Slides tab.

Need help?

1. Email: support@biorender.com
2. Live Chat: Available by clicking on the "Help" bubble in the app on the bottom right-hand corner.