Google has unveiled a suite of new AI-driven features for Chromebook Plus devices, aiming to enhance user productivity and streamline workflows. Central to this update is the Select to Search with Lens functionality, which brings an intuitive, context-aware search experience to ChromeOS.
Select to Search with Lens: A New Way to Interact
The Select to Search with Lens feature allows users to perform searches directly from their current screen without disrupting their workflow. By long-pressing the launcher button and highlighting text or images of interest, a Google Search panel appears, providing relevant information and the option to add further queries. This functionality mirrors the Circle to Search feature found on mobile devices but is optimized for the Chromebook’s trackpad interface.
Enhanced Capabilities for Chromebook Plus Users
Chromebook Plus users benefit from additional features within the Select to Search tool:
– Text Capture and Actionable Insights: The system recognizes specific content types, such as event invitations or handwritten recipes, and offers contextual actions. For instance, highlighting an event invite can automatically populate a Google Calendar event with the relevant details. Similarly, selecting a handwritten recipe can generate a digital shopping list in Google Docs.
– Quick Insert Menu with Image Generation: The Quick Insert menu now includes a Create image option, enabling users to generate images directly within their documents. This complements existing tools like emoji and GIF insertion, as well as quick access to the Clipboard, Calculator, and Caps Lock functions.
Advancements in Reading and Comprehension Tools
The Help me read feature has been expanded to include a Simplify option, designed to break down complex topics into more digestible content. This enhancement aims to assist users in understanding intricate subjects more easily.
Exclusive Features on Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14
The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14 introduces two exclusive features powered by on-device machine learning:
– Smart Grouping: This feature organizes open tabs and documents into logical groups based on current tasks, facilitating a more organized and efficient workspace.
– AI-Powered Editing Tools in Gallery App: The ChromeOS Gallery app now offers AI-driven editing tools, including options to expand or remove backgrounds, create stickers, and erase elements from images.
Additional Perks for Chromebook Plus Users
Purchasing a Chromebook Plus model grants users a 12-month subscription to Google AI Pro, valued at $240. Additionally, users receive a three-month subscription to the AI photo editing app Luminar, providing advanced photo editing capabilities.
Upcoming Gaming Experience
Google has also announced that Squid Game: Unleashed will be coming to Chromebooks, Android tablets, and foldable devices. This Netflix game is optimized for keyboard and mouse input, featuring updated controls and graphics tailored for larger screens. The game is expected to be available in the coming weeks.
Conclusion
The latest updates to Chromebook Plus devices underscore Google’s commitment to integrating advanced AI features into their hardware, enhancing user experience and productivity. With tools like Select to Search with Lens, smart grouping, and AI-powered editing, Chromebook Plus users are equipped with a robust suite of functionalities designed to streamline tasks and foster creativity.
