Google has just announced the next iteration of the company's Chromebook Plus laptop lineup. The Chromebook Plus laptop, launched last year, is a slightly upgraded version of the regular Chromebook.  Oems like Acer and HP, which are releasing Chromebook Plus laptops, should have 8GB+ RAM, 128GB+ storage, a 1080P+ IPS display, and a webcam with temporary noise reduction. It can also feature Intel Core i3 or higher or AMD Ryzen7000 series or higher processors.

Like Google this year, it focuses on integrating Google AI into its latest Chromebook. Last year's model had several AI integrations that focused primarily on meeting apps such as ZOOM, Skype and Google Meet. 

With the recently announced upgrades to Gemini and other AI tools, Google is leaning toward AI this summer, and Chromebooks are seeing some of that. 

We had the opportunity to test a new AI tool and Google found a good way to make ai part of the OS. 

There are several productivity tools like "Help me write" to narrow down text, and Google Task and Calendar gives you access to to-do lists and appointments across devices.

Adaptive charging is used to keep your battery in good condition by tracking usage patterns and "limiting the time your device spends on 100% charging."

Some tools are not immediately available, but Google says they will come this year. Chromebooks now summarize previously opened windows. They are also adding a "help me read" feature for summarizing websites and PDFs.

Last year's model had AI integrated into the camera, but the conference call app appears to show more new AI enhancements.

A feature called screencast is supposed to make it easier to record and edit shared content. It is also supposed to automatically translate into up to 12 languages. Google showed off its live translation feature with Gemini at this year's I\O conference, but it had more advertised languages. It is unclear whether this is something separate from Gemini.

Simpler features include generative AI wallpapers and video call backgrounds. There is also noise cancellation and lighting adjustment.

Finally, Chromebook Plus laptops are getting some form of Gemini. The AI assistant is pre-installed and should help you brainstorm, decompose dense documents, or generate images. While Google appears to be focusing on Gemini's work surface, Chromebook Plus has Gemini for Google Workspace, which integrates Google suites such as documents, sheets, slides and Chrome browsers.

Last year's model was launched in 3 399, even with upgraded specifications. This year's model will be cheaper with less349. There is also the new Acer699GE that is supposed to debut in deb16, which focuses on the game, but it's a more work-focused MA mentioned here