Alphabet Inc.’s Google’s $399 Chromebook Plus will hit store shelves on Oct. 8, offering a budget-friendly computing solution with basic productivity features.
To simplify the Chromebook shopping experience, Google on Monday unveiled a fresh lineup named Chromebook Plus, focusing on productivity and ease of use.
Here are the key highlights of this latest addition:
Minimum Hardware Requirements: To ensure a smooth user experience, Google has established minimum hardware specifications for Chromebook Plus devices. These include an Intel Core i3 12th Gen processor or an AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series processor, 8GB RAM, and a spacious 128GB storage.
The devices will sport a Full HD IPS display and a 1080p+ webcam with Temporal Noise Reduction.
AI-Powered Enhancements: One of the highlights of the Chromebook Plus series has been the integration of AI-powered features, including those from Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Express. During video conferences, users can expect improved lighting, noise cancellation, background blur, and live captions.
Upcoming updates will introduce a versatile writing assistant that works across various websites, including social media platforms and YouTube, and AI-generated wallpapers based on text prompts.
Seamless File Access And Creative Tools: Google has also streamlined file access with automatic file sync for Google Drive, making files readily available even without an internet connection.
In addition, Google Photos has received updates, including the Magic Eraser feature for image editing and the ability to create movies automatically from selected photos and videos.
Exclusive Software Partnerships: The tech giant has also collaborated with industry leaders like Adobe and LumaTouch to bring software like Photoshop, Adobe Express, and LumaFusion to Chromebook Plus users.
“All Chromebooks are required to meet a 10 hours battery life requirement based on internal testing standards,” said Peter Du Google spokesperson in media reports.
“While not a new requirement for Chromebook Plus like the 1080p screen or 8GB of RAM, Chromebook Plus laptops must also adhere to this,” said Peter Du Google spokesperson in media reports.
New buyers will receive a complimentary three-month subscription to Adobe Photoshop and Express.
Availability: Starting Oct. 8, Chromebook Plus devices by Acer, Asus, HP, and Lenovo will be available for purchase, offering both clamshell and detachable two-in-one form factors. European and Canadian customers can place their orders starting the following day.
Why It’s Important: Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Google is expected to launch its next-generation Pixel series at an event in New York City. The search and advertising giant is also poised to unveil its Pixel Watch 2.
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Edited by Miriam Onyango and Newsdesk Manager