Google is bringing a number of AI-powered features to ChromeOS, the operating system that powers Chromebooks.
Not to be outdone by the shiny new AI PCs that Microsoft showed off last week at its Build conference, Google said that various generative AI features will be implemented on Chromebook Plus laptops in the next weeks.
The search engine giant said its Gemini-based AI capabilities will make it easier to complete tasks. The novelty is a direct consequence of the attempt to increase the adoption of AI tools among a diverse user base. Below, let’s find out what the laptops will be able to do.
Google launched the Chromebook Plus as a more powerful lineup than its own Chromebook family of laptop devices capable of handling AI capabilities with advanced hardware in October. The new devices are designed to support artificial intelligence operations, including Google’s most powerful large language model, Gemini.
With Gemini, Google is giving Chromebooks an AI makeover
Chromebook Plus now features “Help me write,” a feature that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to help users find the right words wherever they type, whether it’s a website, a document, a PDF form, or a web app installed on their laptop.
In addition to these text generation features, will introduce AI-powered desktop and generative wallpapers for video calls. Instead, Google Photos will gain some machine learning-powered editing capabilities with Magic Editor. According to Google, the latter allows users to automatically select, resize and reposition subjects within a frame and apparently it works with still images and videos.
All Chromebooks will receive new features, including simple setup with Android phones. Users no longer have to remember long passwords to access their WiFi networks and Google accounts. Now they can scan a QR code and the phone will share credentials for WiFi and Google to set up their device. They also have a built-in screen capture tool Can automatically save screen recordings in GIF format.
These generative AI features are reportedly coming to Chromebook Plus via automatic updates starting next month. Gemini, Google’s ChatGPT rival, is also available as a standalone app, and users can ask the AI chatbot to do just about anything, from writing a cover letter to correcting grammar.
