Chromebook Plus integrates Google Gemini smart assistant

Google adds artificial intelligence (AI) and Gemini features from other devices to Chromebook Plus, including the Chromebook Plus from Asus and HP already on the market along with the brand new Chromebook Plus from Acer. Current and future Chromebook Plus will support new features like Google’s “Help me write” tool and the ability to create custom wallpapers with AI. Magic Editor on Google Photos will also appear on Chromebook Plus, similar to older Android devices.

Google has previously said that it would integrate Gemini with its Chrome desktop web browser – so it’s no surprise to see it integrated into the Chromebook Plus, its typically more powerful (and more expensive) Chromebook line. ). Google has added the Gemini icon to the app shelf for faster and easier access. In addition, Google is also giving away 12 free months of Google One AI Premium to anyone who buys a new Plus laptop, including access to Gemini Advanced, 2TB cloud storage, and Gemini integration with Docs, Sheets, Slides and Gmail.

Google is also releasing new features for both Chromebook Plus and regular Chromebooks: a QR code setup process that allows your Android phone to directly share Wi-Fi and login information with the new Chromebook, the ability to create GIFs from the screen and built-in view of Google Tasks.

Acer also introduced two new Chromebook Plus 2-in-1 and gaming devices today, both of which will have Gemini and other AI features: the updated Chromebook Plus Spin 714 and the Chromebook Plus 516GE – its gaming Chromebook .

The Spin 714 is a 2-in-1 laptop that can be configured with either Intel Core Ultra 7 or either Core Ultra 5 processors and up to 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. All configurations feature a 14-inch, 1200p touchscreen with optional stylus support; 1440p webcam and up to 10 hours of battery life.

The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE supports the same Google AI and Gemini features as the Spin 714 but has a 16-inch, 1600p, 120Hz IPS display; RGB keyboard, pre-installed GeForce Now, 1080p webcam, and Wi-Fi 6E along with a 2.5G ethernet port.

Configurations include Intel Core 7 150U or Core 5 120U processors and up to 16GB of RAM, 2TB of storage, and 10 hours of battery life. Notably, although this laptop will work with Google AI and Gemini features, both the Core 7 150U and Core 5 120U do not have an NPU, meaning they won’t be as nimble at on-device AI tasks compared to The equipment is better equipped.

The Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 714 will be available in North America and EMEA starting in May for 749.99 USD and 979.00 EUR respectively. The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE will be available in North America in May starting at $699.99.

Google’s other AI tools and features, including Gemini, will also be available on the updated HP Chromebook Plus 14 and x360, as well as the Asus CX34 and ExpertBook CX54 Chromebook Plus.

All four of these Chromebook Plus are available for purchase.

Google also said it will release more features for ChromeOS on Chromebook Plus devices throughout the rest of the year. These include the company’s “Project Gameface” AI facial and gesture tracking feature, which was made available source code to Android developers in early May, and Gemini’s “Help me read”, designed to PDF summary and answer the questions that follow. Chromebook Plus devices will also get the new Focus feature with Do Not Disturb mode and the ability to share open windows and programs across all your devices, regardless of operating system.