Chromebook Plus Updates
By Sherlene Hiu
Google’s ongoing AI experiments and integration efforts in its tech products have led to exciting
updates for Chromebook. The recent Google I/O Conference highlighted advancements in Chrome OS, particularly in its application running capabilities. Given Chromebooks’ popularity in educational and organizational settings for their affordability and utility, Google’s introduction of additional AI features can increase its functionality, leading to Chromebook Plus. Today, major tech firms embrace AI integration to streamline processes for users. The Chromebook Plus heralds AI for project anticipation and success through the years.
Gemini Integration
The Chromebook Plus now features Gemini, a new AI assistant that enhances productivity by assisting with tasks like text comprehension, image analysis, and application usage. Users also receive a one-year free trial of Google One AI Premium, enriching Gemini’s capabilities, before costing $19.99. This includes advanced features like enhanced quantity and analysis, query answering, and detailed information access.
Help Me Write
With the power of AI tools, Chromebook Plus has a new feature that allows the user to write from scratch or rewrite text accordingly. The Help Me Write tool joins in as it will help and refine text according to your preferences. Those who want to make their writing more concise and proficient may use this tool to leverage their skills. It also can be used on websites, PDFs, documents, and apps. Help Me Write can be seen as beneficial for individuals struggling with word selection or cognitive functions like working memory, potentially bridging gaps in communication.
Magic Editor
The Magic Editor is another tool used on Google Photos, which gives the person the ability to edit an item by tapping or circling. The item is then resized or repositioned accordingly. This can ease the process without having to remove different objects from the background and enhance photos with the AI tool. While Photoshop and Lightroom have long been used to enhance photos, Generative AI tools are increasingly becoming popular for similar tasks.
Additional Features and Costs
Two new Chromebook Plus models have been announced: the Chromebook Plus Spin 714 priced at around $750 and a gaming model at around $700. They boast enhanced hardware performance compared to previous Chromebooks. While features are still experimental, Google aims to enhance user experience. All Chromebooks are expected to share a Google Task checklist feature and a capture tool for saving screen recordings as GIFs, facilitating funny reactions and memes.
As Generative AI becomes increasingly prevalent in daily tasks, companies are likely to develop new tools to streamline processes and enhance its significance. Google is focusing on improving laptop efficiency and productivity, with ChromeOS adapting to become more self-regulating, and capable of completing tasks without human intervention. Eventually, big tech companies are ready to take steps to another level with AI and laptops in the future.
References:
Dotson, K. (2024). Chromebook Plus receives built-in AI updates with Gemini for photos and writing. Retrieved from https://siliconangle.com/2024/05/28/chromebook-plus-receives-built-ai-updates-gemini-photos-writing/
Mello, J. (2024). Google joins Ai Laptop Party with Chromebook plus. Retrieved from https://www.technewsworld.com/story/google-joins-ai-laptop-party-with-chromebook-plus-179210.html