Google unveils a new range of Chromebook Plus laptops, designed to boost productivity with specific hardware requirements and AI-powered features. Starting at $399, these Chromebook Plus devices are produced by Acer, Asus, HP, and Lenovo. Google has set minimum hardware specifications for these laptops, ensuring they run productivity software and AI features optimally. Key specs include Intel Core i3 12th Gen or higher (or AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series or higher) processors, at least 8GB of RAM, 128GB or more storage, 1080p or better resolution webcam with Temporal Noise Reduction, and a high-quality Full HD IPS display. These specs aim to enhance functionality and capabilities.
These Chromebook Plus devices feature enhanced video conferencing options, including a dedicated control panel for microphone and camera control, AI-powered lighting, noise cancellation, background blur, live captions, and automatic Google Drive file synchronization. Google Photos on Chromebook Plus receives updates like Magic Eraser, HDR, portrait blur, and automatic movie creation. Some of these features will initially be exclusive to the Plus category.
Google collaborates with Adobe and LumaTouch, offering software like Photoshop, Adobe Express, and LumaFusion. New Chromebook Plus buyers get three months of free Photoshop and Express subscriptions, along with a three-month subscription to Nvidia’s GeForce NOW Priority tier cloud gaming service.
Google also plans to introduce AI-powered features, including a cross-website writing assistant and AI-generated wallpapers based on prompts. The offer of 10 years of software updates, previously limited to newer devices, now extends to older Chromebooks that meet the Chromebook Plus profile.
Asus, Acer, HP, and Lenovo will release the first wave of Chromebook Plus devices, priced at $399, available in both clamshell and detachable two-in-one formats, starting from October 8, with European and Canadian availability the following day.
