Google has unveiled a new selection of Chromebook Plus devices, highlighting enhanced AI features and offering a free subscription to Gemini Advanced. This initiative, part of Google’s premium Chromebook Plus brand launched in October 2023, aims to make advanced AI accessible without the high price tag. With prices ranging from $349 to $649, these Chromebooks promise improved performance and features.
New AI Features
Several new AI features are rolling out soon for these devices:
- Gemini Chat Window: This feature will be pinned to the shelf on all Chromebook Plus devices, offering easy access to AI-driven assistance.
- “Help me write”: Integrated across the operating system, this tool can write, rewrite, or correct your writing in any app or the Chrome browser, similar to Microsoft’s Copilot in Edge.
- AI Imagery: Generate AI-based images for desktop wallpapers or videoconferencing backgrounds, compatible with Google Meet, Teams, and Zoom.
- Magic Editor in Google Photos: Previously available on Pixel phones, this feature allows users to easily remove backgrounds from images.
Gaming Enhancements
Acknowledging the rise in gaming on Chromebooks, Google has introduced:
- Game Dashboard: A centralized hub to manage games, settings, and social stats, with seamless game recording capabilities.
- Game Controls: Allows remapping of controller-based controls to keyboard or mouse inputs, applicable to all games, including Android and cloud-based ones.
Additional Features
Google also announced other upcoming ChromeOS features, such as a built-in GIF recorder, enhanced launcher search, and integration of Google Tasks into the shelf calendar.
Gemini Advanced Subscription
A significant perk for new Chromebook Plus buyers is a year of free access to Gemini Advanced, offering the latest AI model and features integrated into Google Worksuite applications. This adds substantial value, particularly for devices starting as low as $349.
New Chromebook Models
Alongside these features, Google introduced several new Chromebooks:
- Acer Chromebook 516 GE: Priced at $699, it’s positioned as a gaming laptop with a high refresh rate display, RGB keyboard, and Intel Raptor Lake processor.
- Acer Spin 714: Also $699, it features an Intel Meteor Lake CPU, a 1440p webcam, and a touchscreen display.
- Asus CM30: A budget-friendly option at $299.
- HP Chromebook x360: Available in both standard and Plus configurations depending on the model.
All these new Chromebooks are available starting today, with additional AI features expected to be released soon.
