Chromebooks Set to Become Smarter and More Accessible

Google announces the transition from Google Assistant to Gemini on Chromebooks, enhancing AI capabilities and introducing new accessibility features.

Big news from Google: Chromebooks are getting a major upgrade, swapping out Google Assistant for Gemini. And it’s not just Chromebooks—phones, smartwatches, even your smart home speakers are in on the action. This is all part of the Chrome OS M134 stable rollout, basically waving goodbye to Google Assistant on Chromebooks. Trying to open Assistant? You’ll be gently nudged towards the Gemini app instead. Don’t worry, though; they’re rolling this out in phases, so it’s not a total shock to the system.

Now, let’s talk Gemini. It’s a Progressive Web App (PWA) on Chrome OS, and it’s packed with cool stuff. Think smarter chats, whipping up images out of thin air, digging into your files, and even helping you write that email you’ve been putting off. Plus, it plays nice with Google Workspace—Gmail, Docs, Calendar, Drive, you name it. It’s like having a mini-you inside your computer, thanks to its knack for using your search history to give you spot-on answers.

And there’s more. ChromeOS M134 is also introducing Slow Keys, a feature that’s a game-changer for folks who might find typing a bit tricky. Whether it’s limited dexterity or just those days when your fingers aren’t cooperating, Slow Keys has your back. It makes sure a key press only counts if you hold it down long enough, saving you from those ‘oops’ moments when you hit the wrong key. Pretty neat, huh?