Google adds AI features to Chromebook Plus devices

Google has unveiled an exciting array of artificial intelligence enhancements for its Chromebook Plus series, aimed at transforming productivity for users. Among the standout additions is a cutting-edge screen selection tool that facilitates search and text capture, reminiscent of Google Lens and the Chrome ‘Circle to search’ feature found on smartphones. This innovative tool allows users to long-press the launcher button or utilize the screenshot feature to select any content displayed on their screen, prompting Google to conduct an immediate search. Additionally, it offers the capability to highlight text and seamlessly add events to the calendar. Building on last year’s introduction of the ‘Quick Insert’ key in certain Chromebook Plus models, users can now access Google’s AI-driven image generation tools and advanced writing functionalities. Another noteworthy feature, dubbed ‘Simplify,’ empowers users to utilize AI to explain, clarify, or summarize selected texts, making information more accessible. As a special incentive, new Chromebook Plus owners will receive a complimentary one-year subscription to the Google AI Pro plan, valued at $240 annually. This subscription grants access to the Gemini app, the Flow video editing tool, the Whisk image-to-video converter, and integration of Gemini across Gmail, Docs, and Chrome, along with 2TB of cloud storage. In addition to these features, Google is rolling out two exclusive AI functionalities for Lenovo’s latest Chromebook Plus 14. The first offers AI-driven recommendations for organizing tabs and documents, while the second allows users to edit images in the Gallery app, providing options to remove backgrounds or create stickers. Lenovo’s new model boasts an OLED touch screen and is powered by an ARM-based MediaTek Kompanio Ultra chip, available in configurations of 12GB and 16GB of RAM, priced at $649 and $749, respectively.