Google has recently announced a major update to its Chromebook lineup, unveiling new models that come with advanced AI features.
Google Launches New Chromebooks
The highlight of Google's announcement is the introduction of the "Chromebook Plus" category. The new Chromebooks are manufactured by third-party partners Acer, HP, and Asus. Notably, 6 new models were announced.
On the higher end, the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 ($699) boasts a 360-degree hinge and powerful Intel Core Ultra processor, while the HP Chromebook Plus x360 ($429) provides a 14-inch screen, 360-degree hinge, and impressive 10+ hour battery life.
The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34 ($499) includes a 14-inch display, 180-degree hinge, WiFi 6E support, and an optional touchscreen.
For those seeking more affordable options, the Asus Chromebook CM30 ($299) is a compact 10.5-inch model with a detachable keyboard, 8GB RAM, and 128GB storage.
The HP Chromebook 14-inch ($249) is the most budget-friendly, packing an Intel Pentium processor and 128GB storage, though a Plus version starts at $449. Interestingly, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE ($649) caters to cloud gaming with its 16-inch 120Hz display.
One of the standout features of the new Chromebook Plus devices is the 'Help me write' assistant. This tool aids users in writing, reformatting, or emojifying text.
Another interesting addition is the Wallpaper Creator. Using generative AI, this feature allows users to create custom wallpapers and video call backgrounds through guided prompts.
Chromebook Plus devices also offer easy access to Google's Gemini Chatbot, providing users with an advanced AI assistant at their fingertips.
Additionally, new Chromebook Plus buyers will receive 12 months of Google One AI Premium, which includes access to Gemini Advanced, 2TB of cloud storage, and the use of Gemini in Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail.
For photo enthusiasts, the Magic Editor in Google Photos is a game-changer. This feature allows users to shift or resize objects within photos, with AI regenerating the background accordingly.
Google DeepMind chief Demis Hassabis (L) and Google chief executive Sundar Pichai open the tech titan's annual I/O developers conference focusing on how artificial intelligence is being woven into search, email, virtual meetings and more in Mountain View, California, on May 14, 2024. GLENN CHAPMAN/AFP via Getty Images
New Features for All Chromebooks
Google has not limited these upgrades to the new Chromebook Plus models alone.
TechCrunch tells us that all Chromebooks will benefit from an enhanced setup process that includes QR code scanning from an Android phone to share Wi-Fi credentials and Google account details. This makes the initial setup more streamlined and user-friendly.
Integration of Google Tasks within the calendar view is another useful feature, showing to-do items from all Google Workspace apps.
Additionally, users can now save screen recordings as GIFs, making it easier to share and view content in a more dynamic format.
Meanwhile, the new game dashboard enhances the gaming experience by allowing users to map mobile controls to keys.
Google Teases Future Updates for Chromebooks
Looking ahead, Google has teased several upcoming features like one allowing users to control their Chromebook interface through face and head movements.
Another one: The Gemini-Powered Reading Summaries will soon provide summaries of websites and documents and allow users to ask questions about the content.
Another exciting future update is the Task Continuity Feature, which enables users to resume tasks like reading an article from where they left off on their phone.
Additionally, a focus-related feature is coming soon to help users pick a task and a timeframe to complete it, accompanied by a YouTube Music playlist, while enabling "Do not disturb" mode to minimize interruptions.
