Google has announced Chrome OS is getting a massive redesign in order to celebrate the 10th birthday of the Chromebook. Here are all of the best new Chromebook features.
The updated Chrome OS 89 operating system is rolling out to Chromebook owners today and introduces a brand new Phone Hub, integration with Nearby Share and expansions of features like Desks and Screen Capture. The features are sure to enhance the best Chromebooks around.
Phone Hub
Google is bringing a handy little shortcut for Android phone owners. Users will be able to reply to incoming texts, while controlling some of the phone’s key features, including turning the mobile hotspot on.
Nearby Share
Google is bringing Android’s AirDrop-like Nearby Share to the Chrome OS, enabling Chromebook owners to send and receive files without the need for contact details or an internet connection.
Wi-Fi Sync
The Wi-Fi Sync tech brings the much needed ability to automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks used by your other Google-based devices. As long as you’re logged in with the same Google account, you won’t need to enter the password. This is great if you’re getting a new machine.
Screen Capture upgrade
Google is making it easier to take screen captures and recordings. The options are now available within the quick settings panel, rather than having to remember the keyboard shortcuts. The company is also touting Tote – “a new new space that keeps important files right at your fingertips. Open Tote from your Shelf and you’ll see all your recent downloads, recent screen captures and pinned files.”
New Clipboard
No need to worry about something you’d copied a few clicks back, Chrome OS now shows the last five items you’ve copied, meaning it’ll be less necessary to switch windows.
Quick Answers
Here’s another new feature. Quick Answers offers a series of tools, when you right click an item or a piece of text. Here you’ll see options to translate, define, or convert the item.
Supercharged Desks
Enhancements are coming to Desks with Google saying “now when you reboot, all your windows will restore to their previous desks so your workflow isn’t interrupted.” There’s also the option to right click on a window to send it to a different desk.
Select-to-speak improvements
Google’s built-in screenreader will have new controls that’ll speed, slow, and pause the reading voice. It’s also easier to move to new sections of text.
Easier sharing
Chrome OS is enhancing some existing features Now, Google says, it is making it easier to share content within apps. “When you click “share” on a supported app or website, you’ll see a list of apps you can share content with directly.”
New icons
Google has announced the Chromebook’s stock apps are getting a redesign too!
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
