Samsung’s New Premium Chromebook: Big Screen, AI Key & More
In a bid to redefine the Chromebook experience, Samsung has unveiled its new Galaxy Chromebook Plus, a sleek and lightweight device equipped with a large OLED screen and a brand-new dedicated AI key. The announcement comes as part of Google’s ongoing Chromebook Plus initiative, which aims to blend premium hardware with advanced software features. Alongside Samsung, Lenovo has also introduced its updated Chromebook Duet, offering a more portable option. Here’s what you need to know about the latest Chromebook innovations and software updates from Google.
New Hardware: Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus
Samsung’s Galaxy Chromebook Plus is the star of the new hardware lineup. Weighing just 2.58 pounds and less than half an inch thick, it is the thinnest and lightest Chromebook Plus yet. The device boasts a 15.6-inch OLED display, which positions it alongside devices like the 15-inch MacBook Air in terms of feel and design. Despite its compact form, Samsung promises a robust performance thanks to its Intel Core i3-100U processor, 256GB of storage, and 8GB of RAM.
One of the standout features of the Galaxy Chromebook Plus is its battery life. Samsung claims a 13-hour battery life, although past experiences with Chromebook battery promises mean this will need to be tested in real-world conditions.
The most notable addition to the device is the introduction of the “Quick Insert” key, replacing the usual Launcher key. This new key brings up a specialized menu that offers a range of AI-powered tools, including Google’s Gemini-powered “help me write” feature, emoji and GIF search, recent website lists, and Google Drive search. While this key is exclusive to the Galaxy Chromebook Plus, other Chromebook models can access the same functionality via a keyboard shortcut.
The Galaxy Chromebook Plus is priced at $699, making it the most expensive Chromebook Plus model so far. It is expected to be available later this month.
Lenovo’s Update: Chromebook Duet 11
Lenovo has also joined the fray with the updated Chromebook Duet 11, a convertible device that builds on the success of its predecessor released in 2020. This smaller form-factor device now features a MediaTek Kompanio 838 processor, up to 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage. Lenovo has also worked on slimming down the bezels, giving the device a more compact and modern look.
The Duet 11 offers a detachable keyboard and the option to use a stylus, along with a three-month subscription to Goodnotes. Google has optimized the app for Chrome OS, aiming to improve the stylus experience. Prices for the Chromebook Duet 11 start at $340 for the 4GB/64GB model and $390 for the 8GB/128GB model, with both configurations including the keyboard and stylus.
AI and Software Updates for Chrome OS
Google is also rolling out new software features, especially for Chromebook Plus models. These updates are focused on enhancing productivity and improving user experience through AI-powered tools. Here’s what’s new:
- Gemini-Powered “Help Me Read”: This feature can summarize PDFs, articles, or websites with just a right-click. Initially, it provides a general summary, but future updates will allow users to highlight specific sections for more detailed insights.
- Live Translate: AI-powered live captions are now available across various media, including video calls, movie files, and YouTube streams. The feature has been borrowed from Pixel phones and extends the ability to transcribe and translate audio in real-time.
- Improved Recorder App: The updated Recorder app can now create automatic transcripts, identifying different speakers and summarizing conversations. This feature is useful for meetings, interviews, and lectures.
- Better Audio and Video on Calls: With the new “studio-style mic” feature, Google promises reduced background noise and enhanced audio clarity. Additionally, video calls will benefit from AI-adjusted lighting, making calls look and sound better across any platform.
- Google One AI Premium Plan: All new Chromebook buyers receive three months of the Google One AI Premium plan, which includes 2TB of storage and Gemini Advanced tools in various Google apps. Chromebook Plus buyers get a full year of this service, adding value to their purchase.
- Task Management and Focus Features: New features like a focus timer and the “Welcome Back” option aim to help users manage their tasks more efficiently. The focus timer silences notifications and lets users work distraction-free, while “Welcome Back” conveniently pulls up apps and pages to resume where users left off.
Samsung and Lenovo’s latest devices mark a significant step forward for the Chromebook Plus initiative, focusing on blending high-quality hardware with practical, AI-powered software features. The Galaxy Chromebook Plus, with its sleek design, OLED display, and Quick Insert key, aims to set a new standard for premium Chromebooks, while Lenovo’s Duet 11 continues to offer a versatile and budget-friendly option for those seeking portability.
As Google continues to refine Chrome OS with these new features, it’s clear that the Chromebook Plus lineup is not just about better specs but also about offering a richer, more integrated user experience. With these innovations, Chromebooks are becoming more than just affordable laptops—they’re evolving into powerful tools for productivity and creativity.