Google introduced new AI-driven features for its Chromebook Plus lineup today, including a writing assistant, wallpaper creator, and easy access to Google’s Gemini chatbot. Chromebook Plus laptops are productivity-oriented with specific minimum specs. Additionally, the company launched new Chromebook Plus models from HP, Acer, and Asus.
Earlier this month, at the Google I/O developer conference, the tech giant incorporated several Gemini-powered functionalities into Maps and introduced spam detection for calls. Now, the Gemini icon is also available on the app shelf of Chromebooks for quick access.
In addition, those purchasing a new Chromebook Plus will receive a 12-month subscription to the Google One AI Premium plan. This plan offers access to Gemini Advanced, 2TB of storage, and Gemini features integrated into Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail.
Earlier this year, Google launched a writing tool within Chrome designed to help users write or reformat text anywhere. This feature is now expanded to rewrite text across Chromebook Plus devices, allowing users to select text on PDFs, websites, or web apps to adjust tone and length.
A new tool on Chromebook Plus also helps users generate wallpapers and video-conferencing backgrounds using guided prompts. Last year, Google added a similar AI-powered wallpaper tool to Android 14.
Chromebook Plus devices are also receiving a generative AI-powered magic editor in Google Photos. This tool enables users to shift or resize selected objects, with AI regenerating the background accordingly.
Features for all Chromebooks
New budget Chromebook buyers and existing users will also see additional features. Setting up a new Chromebook is now simpler; users can scan a QR code from their Android phones to share essential details like Wi-Fi credentials and Google account information.
Chromebooks now feature Tasks integration within the calendar view. Users can tap on the calendar view from the bottom right to see all their to-do items across Google Workspace apps.
New features also include the ability to save screen recordings in GIF format and a Game dashboard with the functionality to map mobile controls to keys.
Upcoming features
Google is previewing future features coming to Chromebooks. Last year, via Project Gameface, the company introduced an accessible mouse allowing players to control the device using face and head movements. This feature will soon be integrated into ChromeOS, enabling navigation of the interface through gestures.
Furthermore, Chromebooks will feature Gemini-powered reading summaries of websites and documents, allowing users to ask questions about the documents or articles.
A new continuity feature will soon let users resume tasks, such as reading articles left off on Chrome on their phones. When activated, users opening their laptops will see suggested windows, apps, and tabs left open on other devices.
Additionally, a new focus-related feature will allow users to choose a task, set a timeframe to complete it, and select a YouTube Music playlist to listen to. This feature will enable “Do not disturb” mode to block notifications during the focus period.
New devices
Coinciding with these feature updates, Google unveiled six new Chromebooks from HP, Acer, and Asus, including four Chromebook Plus and two budget models. These Chromebooks range in price from $299 to $699.
