In a move to enhance the capabilities of Chromebooks, Google is bringing its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, Gemini, and a suite of AI-powered features to ChromeOS, the operating system that powers these laptops. This initiative aims to increase the adoption of Google’s AI tools among a diverse user base and further solidify Chromebooks’ position in the market.
One of the key additions is the integration of Gemini, Google’s answer to ChatGPT, into ChromeOS. This AI chatbot will be available as a standalone app, enabling users to leverage its capabilities for a wide range of tasks, including writing cover letters, fixing grammar in essays, and more.
Google is also introducing “Help Me Write,” a feature that works in any text box, allowing users to ask Google’s AI to rewrite, rephrase, or change the tone of selected text. Additionally, users will have the ability to create custom wallpapers using generative AI, providing a personalized touch to their Chromebook experience.
The Magic Editor on Google Photos, which leverages AI for image editing, is also coming to Chromebook Plus models. Live Caption, a feature that provides subtitles for other languages during video calls on platforms like Zoom and Google Meet, is aimed at reducing language barriers and enhancing accessibility.
Google’s move to bring Gemini and AI-powered features to ChromeOS is part of a broader strategy to integrate emerging technologies into products across various price segments and operating systems. Chromebooks, with their significant presence in the education market and popularity among budget-conscious consumers, represent an ideal platform for introducing AI capabilities to a diverse user base.
The introduction of the “Chromebook Plus” certification last year was a step towards streamlining Chromebooks and helping users identify high-quality ChromeOS-powered notebooks. Google has announced that manufacturers like HP, Acer, and Asus are bringing new Chromebook Plus models to the market, further expanding the range of AI-capable devices.
Google’s push into AI integration on Chromebooks comes as tech giants like Apple and Microsoft are also vying for a strong presence in the education segment. Apple has recently made its 10th-generation iPad more affordable, positioning it as an entry-level base model, while Microsoft has rearchitected Windows 11 to run dozens of AI models in the background with its “Copilot Plus PCs.”
As the race to bring AI to the forefront of consumer products intensifies, Google’s move to supercharge ChromeOS with Gemini and AI-powered features represents a strategic effort to maintain its competitive edge and cater to the growing demand for intelligent and intuitive computing experiences across various platforms and price points.
