Here is an article that is not about any of the “normal” topics of this newsletter: genealogy, history, current affairs, DNA, and related topics. However, I have written often about Chromebooks, the low-cost and very useful computers. Here is the latest news about Chromebooks:
Google announced on Tuesday that it will incorporate Gemini and AI capabilities from its other devices into Chromebook Plus laptops. This includes a limited number of models from Asus and HP that are currently available, as well as new models from Acer. New features, such as Google’s “Help me write” tool and the capacity to create custom imagery with generative AI, will be supported by these and future Chromebook Plus laptops. The Magic Editor on Google Photos is also being ported to Chromebook Plus, and it has already begun to appear on older Android devices.
Gemini was previously announced by the company as a feature that would be integrated with the Chrome desktop browser. Consequently, it is unsurprising that it has been incorporated into the Chromebook Plus, which is a more powerful (and costly) version of the Chromebook. The Gemini icon has been incorporated into the app shelf by Google to facilitate quicker and more convenient access. In addition, it is providing a complimentary 12-month subscription to Google One AI Premium to individuals who purchase a new Plus laptop. This subscription includes access to Gemini Advanced, 2TB of cloud storage, and Gemini incorporated with Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Slides.
Google is also introducing new features that are compatible with both Chromebook Plus and standard Chromebooks. These features include a QR code setup process that enables your Android phone to directly share your Wi-Fi and login credentials with your new Chromebook, the capability to create GIFs from screen recordings, and a built-in view of Google Tasks.