Google Chromebook Plus Models Getting Gemini for an Injection of Generative AI
At its developer conference, Google announced Gemini and other AI features coming to Chromebook Plus laptops.
Google announced recently the addition of Gemini and other AI features to Chromebook Plus laptops. Gemini is already available on some of Google’s other devices, but now it’s going to be available on a few current laptops from Asus and HP. The AI features should also be integrated into new Chromebook Plus laptops, including those recently announced by Acer. Without a doubt, these new Chromebook Plus features are meant to compete with recently-announced Copilot+ AI laptops.
In ChromeOS, on these more powerful Chromebook Plus laptops Google has added the Gemini icon to the app shelf. This allows users to quickly access the generative AI assistant. Those who purchase a new Plus laptop will also get a year of Google One AI Premium for free. That includes access to Gemini Advanced, 2TB of cloud storage, and Gemini integrations with Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail.
The Gemini inclusion into ChromeOS powers some new features. One of these lets you make custom wallpaper with generative AI, while the existing Magic Editor comes to Google Photos on the Chromebook Plus. There’s also a new “Where was I?” Feature that helps you quickly get back to things you’ve been working on.
You can use the “Help me write” tool, too, to help you draft emails, reports, and other written texts. For both Chromebook Plus and standard Chromebook laptops, Google is also adding a QR code setup process. This allows you to share your Wi-Fi and login credentials from your Android phone with your new Chromebook.
The Latest Chromebook Plus Laptops for Both Productivity and Gaming
Along with the announcement of the new features for the Chromebook Plus, there were also two new Chromebook Plus devices announced. Acer unveiled a pair of laptops that will each include the Gemini and other AI features.
Acer’s Chromebook Plus Spin 714
Acer is refreshing its 2-in-1 Chromebook Plus Spin 714. This laptop can be quickly converted from traditional laptop to tablet mode, thanks to a 360-degree hinge on the display. It has a 14-inch touchscreen display and either an Intel Core Ultra 5 or Core Ultra 7 processor.
The laptop comes with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of SSD storage. It has a QHD 1440p camera, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.1 support.
Acer’s Spin 714 Chromebook Plus models will be available starting in May 2024 for $749.99.
The Gaming Chromebook
The Chromebook Plus 516GE is Acer’s gaming Chromebook, and the new version supports the same Google AI and Gemini features as the new Spin 714. The 516GE, though, offers a 16-inch 1600p display with refresh rates up to 120Hz. It will also include an RGB keyboard, GeForce Now preinstalled, and a 1080p webcam.
Like the Spin 714, the 516GE uses either an Intel Core Ultra 5 or Core Ultra 7 processor. It’s available with up to 16GB of RAM and SSD storage up to 2TB. For connectivity, the Chromebook Plus includes Wi-Fi 6E support and a 2.5G ethernet port.
Acer announced the Chromebook Plus 516E will be available starting in May 2024 for $699.99
