Google announced a significant upgrade for Chromebook Plus laptops on Tuesday, bringing its powerful Gemini AI and other features from its other devices to the platform. This move targets Chromebook Plus laptops, known for their enhanced processing power and typically higher price points compared to standard Chromebooks.

Several manufacturers are jumping on board, with new Chromebook Plus models from Acer, HP, and Asus already available or launching soon. These new devices will boast functionalities like Google’s “Help me write” tool, which assists users in crafting content, and the ability to generate personalized wallpapers using AI. Additionally, Chromebook Plus users will gain access to Magic Editor, a photo editing tool from Google Photos, previously only available on newer Android devices.

This integration comes after Google’s earlier announcement regarding incorporating Gemini into the Chrome desktop browser. Chromebook Plus laptops, known for their robust capabilities, were natural candidates for this integration. Google has made accessing Gemini even more convenient by placing its icon directly on the app shelf of Chromebook Plus devices.

For those purchasing a new Chromebook Plus laptop, Google is offering a sweet deal: 12 months of Google One AI Premium included free of charge. This subscription unlocks access to the advanced version of Gemini, a whopping 2TB of cloud storage, and integration of Gemini within productivity apps like Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail.

Google is also introducing new features available for both Chromebook Plus and standard Chromebooks. These include:

• A QR code setup process that streamlines the setup process by allowing your Android phone to directly share your Wi-Fi credentials and login information with your new Chromebook.
• The ability to transform screen recordings into GIFs, perfect for capturing quick moments.
• A built-in view of Google Tasks, your to-do list app, for improved organization.

Acer unveils new Chromebook Plus laptops

Acer took advantage of the announcement to introduce two new Chromebook Plus devices: the refreshed Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (a 2-in-1 laptop) and the Chromebook Plus 516GE, designed specifically for gamers.

The Spin 714 boasts a 14-inch 1200p touchscreen display (with optional stylus support) and boasts processing power from either an Intel Core Ultra 7 or Core Ultra 5 processor. Users can configure it with up to 16GB of memory and 512GB of storage. A 1440p webcam and a promised 10 hours of battery life round out the package.

Gamers will be drawn to the Chromebook Plus 516GE. It features a larger 16-inch 1600p display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. An RGB keyboard adds a touch of flair, while pre-installed GeForce Now allows gamers to access a vast library of titles. This Chromebook Plus also packs a 1080p webcam, Wi-Fi 6E for high-speed connectivity, and a 2.5G ethernet port for a wired option.

While the 516GE boasts the same Google AI and Gemini features as the Spin 714, potential buyers should be aware that it utilizes Intel Core 7 150U or Core 5 120U processors, which lack dedicated Neural Processing Units (NPUs). This means the device might not handle on-device AI tasks as efficiently as laptops equipped with NPUs.

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 (CP714-1H) will be available for purchase in North America and Europe starting in May, with a starting price of $749.99 / €979. Gamers can get their hands on the Chromebook Plus 516GE (CBG516-2H) in North America in May, starting at $699.99.

Gemini AI arrives on Asus and HP Chromebook Plus laptops

The news extends beyond Acer’s offerings. HP’s refreshed Chromebook Plus 14 and x360 Chromebook Plus will also benefit from Gemini and the suite of Google AI features. Asus joins the party with the CX34 and ExpertBook CX54 Chromebook Plus models.

HP’s offerings cater to a wider range of needs. The Chromebook Plus 14 features an Intel Core 13-N305 processor (without an NPU), 8GB of memory, and up to 256GB of storage. It boasts Wi-Fi 6 connectivity and a 14-inch 1080p display. The x360 Chromebook Plus 14 is essentially a 2-in-1 version of the 14 with a touchscreen display.

For those seeking a powerful Chromebook Plus, Asus’s ExpertBook CX54 might be the answer. It offers up to an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor, 8GB of memory, and 128GB of storage. This Chromebook Plus boasts a stunning 1600p display with an impressive 500 nits of brightness – perfect for users who demand excellent visuals. Asus also offers the Chromebook Plus CX34, featuring up to an Intel Core i3-1215U processor (again, without an NPU), 16GB of memory, and a 14-inch 1080p touchscreen display.

All four of these Chromebook Plus laptops from Asus and HP are currently available for purchase, giving users a wider range of options depending on their needs and budget.

More features are coming soon

Google hinted at even more features coming to Chromebook Plus devices throughout the remainder of 2024. These include:

• Project Gameface — This AI tool, recently open-sourced for Android developers, utilizes facial and gesture tracking. Its integration into Chromebooks could revolutionize video conferencing and presentations.
• Gemini’s “Help me read” — This feature tackles lengthy PDFs by summarizing the content and allowing users to ask follow-up questions for a deeper understanding.
• A new Focus feature with Do Not Disturb mode — This will enhance productivity by minimizing distractions.
• Cross-device window and program sharing — This functionality will allow users to seamlessly share open applications between their Chromebook Plus and other devices, regardless of the operating system.

This suite of upcoming features, combined with the current integration of Gemini and other AI tools, positions Chromebook Plus laptops as a compelling option for users seeking powerful and intelligent Chrome OS devices.