Tag: ChromeOS

  • Google Introduces Face Control and New Tools for ChromeOS

    Google Introduces Face Control and New Tools for ChromeOS

    Google’s ChromeOS is likely the most widely used operating system in classrooms, and it’s set to become even more advanced.

    New Features at BETT Show

    During the BETT Show (British Educational Training and Technology), Google introduced some exciting features that will be part of ChromeOS 132. One of the standout additions is Face Control, enabling users to navigate and interact with ChromeOS using just their facial movements. Originating from Project Gameface, which was launched last summer, this feature allows users to utilize a ChromeOS device’s front-facing camera to move the mouse cursor and click by tilting their heads or making facial expressions. This innovation could greatly assist students and ChromeOS users with motor disabilities, making it easier for them to engage with devices like the Asus Chromebook CX1, currently priced at $236.63 on Amazon.

    Enhancements for Accessibility

    Additionally, there will be enhancements to ChromeOS’s text-to-speech functionality, featuring more lifelike voices. The voice recognition capabilities are also set to improve, benefiting users who depend on speech-to-text services.

    On the educational management front, Chromebooks will gain a new tool designed to help teachers keep their students focused. This tool, named Class Tools, simplifies monitoring and controlling connected Chromebooks for teachers or instructional aides. It also allows teachers to share their screens with student Chromebooks and even show live-translated captions.

    NotebookLM and Chromebox OPS

    A new language model, NotebookLM, is being introduced to collaborate with Google’s Gemini to create lesson plans and summarize class notes for students. Educators can utilize this tool to provide students access to a class-specific AI language model, aiding them in their studies.

    Furthermore, Chromebox OPS will enable users to transform compatible smart boards into fully functional ChromeOS devices, significantly boosting the boards’ capabilities.

    IT administrators will also receive new features to provide them “greater control over third-party applications, Google Forms, and digital signatures,” as stated by Google. Additionally, admins will be able to extend a student’s access to their classroom work even after graduation, allowing them to take their digital projects home.

    Upcoming Products in 2025

    Finally, Google announced that over 20 new Chromebooks will be released in 2025, catering to both the educational sector and the general consumer market.

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  • Lenovo Launches Affordable Chromebook Duet and Duet EDU G2 in US

    Lenovo Launches Affordable Chromebook Duet and Duet EDU G2 in US

    Lenovo is broadening its Chromebook range with the introduction of the new Chromebook Duet and Chromebook Duet EDU G2 laptops. The company recently launched the Legion G7 gaming smartphone and tablets in China, and now they have rolled out two convertible Chromebook models in the US at a budget-friendly price. Here’s what to know about the specifications, pricing, and more.

    Unique Features of the Lenovo Chromebook Duet Series

    These laptops are quite alike when it comes to specifications and features, but there are slight variations. Lenovo introduced the Chromebook Duet series with a 10.95-inch WUXGA display that has a 16:10 aspect ratio, a peak brightness of 400 nits, TUV Low Blue Light certification, and protection from Corning Gorilla Glass 3. Inside, the pair are powered by the MediaTek Kompanio 838 SoC, which is combined with up to 8GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of eMMC storage.

    Details on the Chromebook Duet Series Laptops

    As indicated by the name, these laptops operate on ChromeOS straight out of the box and claim to deliver up to 12 hours of battery life. They are slim and lightweight, weighing just 510 grams and measuring only 7.59mm thick in tablet mode. However, you’ll probably be using this laptop along with the Folio keyboard and Stand Cover for better usability.

    single audio/microphone combo jack

    Pricing and Where to Find Them

    The company has launched the Chromebook Duet and Chromebook Duet EDU G2 with ENERGY STAR certification and includes three months of complimentary access to Gemini Advanced. They are presently available in North America, starting at a price of $339.99 for the Duet and $319 for the Duet EDU G2. Both models come in a single color option known as Luna Grey.

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  • Samsung Set to Launch First Chromebook Plus Device Next Week

    Samsung Set to Launch First Chromebook Plus Device Next Week

    Samsung has been absent from the premium Chromebook market for a significant period. Its previous model, the Chromebook 2, was released in 2021. After almost four years, there are indications that Samsung is gearing up to unveil a new Chromebook, as suggested by a report from Chrome Unboxed.

    Upcoming Release of the Galaxy Chromebook Plus

    The report indicates that Samsung is preparing to launch the Galaxy Chromebook Plus, potentially as soon as next week. This would mark the company’s first Galaxy-branded Chromebook in several years and also their inaugural “Plus” Chromebook model.

    For those who may not know, Google introduced a “Plus” designation for Chromebooks last year. To qualify for this label, manufacturers must adhere to specific standards, including the use of high-end processors, high-resolution webcams, and certain minimum system specifications.

    Meeting the Plus Criteria

    You can find more details about the Chromebook Plus requirements through available resources. It is expected that Samsung’s first Plus Chromebook will comply with these standards without question. Google is also set to host a Chromebook-focused event in New York City on September 24th, where rumors suggest the new Samsung Chromebook Plus could make its debut.

    There have been ongoing rumors about Samsung’s Chromebook codenamed “Xol.” While specific details about the device remain scarce, it is anticipated to be a conventional clamshell laptop featuring high-end specs and a dedicated “assistant key.” Given the strong focus on Gemini, Google’s virtual assistant, in the 2024 Chromebook lineup, it is likely that this key will be integrated with Gemini.

    Anticipated Features and Specifications

    The precise specifications, design, and other features of the Galaxy Chromebook Plus are still under wraps. However, if the rumors are accurate and the launch takes place next week, the wait for official information will soon be over. We will keep you updated as new details emerge.

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  • Google Tests ChromeOS on Android Devices to Rival Samsung DeX

    Google Tests ChromeOS on Android Devices to Rival Samsung DeX

    Google’s mobile OS, Android, has been around for a long time, yet it hasn’t provided a true desktop experience when connected to a monitor. Both Microsoft’s Continuum for Lumia and Samsung’s DeX aimed to offer such experiences, but neither solution gained widespread adoption. Importantly, Google never supported this kind of functionality natively. This, however, might be changing as it appears that Google is working on a solution.

    ChromeOS: Google’s Different Approach

    Rather than adapting Android for desktops, Google created ChromeOS, a lightweight operating system designed specifically to offer a desktop experience. ChromeOS powers several laptops, particularly those used in educational settings. While it hasn’t reached the dominance of Windows, ChromeOS provides a user-friendly alternative.

    Google’s ChromeOS on Android

    Recent reports by Android Authority indicate that Google might be exploring ways to bring ChromeOS to Android devices. Additionally, Google will allow OEMs to run ChromiumOS, the open-source version of ChromeOS, on their devices. Although there is no official evidence yet that Google is merging both platforms, we know that Google previously worked on a hybrid architecture called "Andromeda," which combined ChromeOS and Android-based systems, though it was later canceled.

    ChromiumOS on Pixel 7 Pro

    The Android Authority team successfully ran ChromiumOS on a virtual machine within Android, codenamed "ferrochrome." This was made possible with Google’s VL Launcher app and Android’s Virtualization Framework (AVF), suggesting the potential for running ChromeOS on Android devices in the future.

    In a video shared by Android Authority, ChromiumOS operates very smoothly on the Pixel 7 Pro. While it’s too early to say that Google has transformed Android devices into desktop machines, the capability to run ChromiumOS on Android is promising. We might see some intriguing developments from Google soon.

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  • Introducing the ‘Bento Button’: ChromeOS 120 Update is Now Available

    Introducing the ‘Bento Button’: ChromeOS 120 Update is Now Available

    ChromeOS 120 has recently been released, bringing a range of updates and improvements to the ChromeOS experience. This latest version introduces new functionalities for virtual desk management and also marks the beginning of the phase-out of support for certain legacy media formats.

    New Features in ChromeOS 120

    Bento Button for Virtual Desk Management

    One of the standout features of ChromeOS 120 is the introduction of the ‘Bento Button’. This new shelf button is designed to streamline the management of virtual desks. With the Bento Button, users can easily visualize, switch, create, and order virtual desks. This enhancement greatly improves multitasking efficiency, especially for those who frequently use multiple virtual desks.

    Phase-Out of Support for MPEG4 Part 2 and AVI Container

    ChromeOS 120 also marks the start of the phase-out of support for the MPEG4 Part 2 video codec and AVI container. Users who still require these formats can temporarily re-enable support by using the chrome://flags/#cros-legacy-media-formats link. However, this workaround will only be available until the release of ChromeOS 125.

    Additional Updates in ChromeOS 120

    • Mouse and Keyboard Customization: Users now have the ability to disable mouse scroll acceleration and adjust scroll speed. Keyboard settings have also been enhanced, allowing customization for actions such as right-click, home, end, and page up.
    • Resizable Picture-in-Picture (PiP): ChromeOS 120 introduces the ability to resize PiP windows using a pinch gesture, adding convenience to multitasking.
    • Revamped Emoji Picker: The emoji and GIF picker now features a dynamic color palette, making the selection process more engaging and visually appealing.
    • XDR Authentication Events: As part of Extended Detection and Response (XDR) on ChromeOS, authentication events such as login, logout, lock, and unlock can now be enabled, providing valuable insights into device security posture.
    • App Management and Details: Users can now view detailed information about installed apps, including storage usage, version number, and installation source.

    Admin Console Updates for Administrators

    For administrators, ChromeOS 120 brings new or updated policies in the Admin console. These policies, such as PowerManagementIdleSettings, ScreenLockDelays, LidCloseAction, and more, provide greater control over device management and security.

    Overall, ChromeOS 120 introduces several exciting features and improvements that enhance the ChromeOS experience. From streamlined virtual desk management to enhanced mouse and keyboard customization, users can expect a more efficient and personalized workflow. Administrators also benefit from new policies that offer greater control over device management and security.

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