Google Launches Chromebook Plus: Enhanced Performance and Exciting Features
Google is aiming to change the perception surrounding Chromebooks with its latest release, the Chromebook Plus. Known for their affordability and basic specifications, Chromebooks have often been associated with cheap hardware and limited capabilities. However, the Chromebook Plus seeks to challenge this notion by offering improved performance, enhanced features, and greater value for money.
Priced at $399, the Chromebook Plus represents a new category of ChromeOS-powered laptops that exceed the minimum specifications typically associated with Chromebooks. According to Google, these new devices will deliver up to double the performance, storage, and memory compared to non-Plus Chromebooks. This upgrade will provide users with a more seamless and efficient experience.
Offered by major device manufacturers such as Asus, Acer, HP, and Lenovo, the Chromebook Plus laptops come with guaranteed specs that include an Intel Core i3 (or higher) or AMD Ryzen 7000 series CPU, 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, a 1080p IPS display, and a 1080p webcam. These specifications offer solid performance at an affordable price point.
Various Chromebook Plus models will be available within the $399 to $499 range. Acer, for instance, will offer the Chromebook Plus 515 and Chromebook Plus 514, both priced at $399. These models feature 15.6-inch and 14-inch displays, respectively, with an Intel Core i3 processor on the former and an AMD Ryzen 3 on the latter.
Asus will provide the Chromebook Plus CX34 and Chromebook Plus CM34 Flip, priced at $399 and $499, respectively. The former offers a 14-inch display with an Intel Core i3 processor, while the latter sports the same display size but features an AMD Ryzen 3 CPU.
HP is releasing the Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch, priced at $399, and the Chromebook Plus x360 14c, priced at $699. The former boasts a 15.6-inch screen and is equipped with an Intel Core i3 CPU, while the latter features a 14-inch display and an Intel Core i3 processor.
Lenovo also joins the Chromebook Plus lineup with the Flex 5i Chromebook Plus priced at $499, featuring a 14-inch display and an Intel Core i3. Additionally, the Slim 3i Chromebook Plus offers a similar configuration with a 14-inch display and an Intel Core i3 CPU, also priced at $499.
Aside from improved hardware, Google has also introduced a range of enhanced features powered by their own technology. These include a Magic Eraser and portrait-mode tools in the Google Photos app, which even function offline. Additionally, the Chromebook Plus models offer better offline file syncing, upgraded video calling capabilities using AI to enhance call quality, lighting, and reduce background noise. These AI-powered video enhancements were previously exclusive to Google Meet but are now accessible through any video calling application, such as Zoom or Teams.
Exciting AI features are also expected to be introduced in future software updates. One notable example is an AI-powered writing assistant that assists with social media posts by suggesting character limits and relevant hashtags based on the platform being used. Additionally, the Chromebook Plus users will soon be able to generate desktop wallpapers and backgrounds for video calls through simple text prompts.
To showcase the confidence in the Chromebook Plus’s capabilities, Google is including a free three-month subscription to Adobe Photoshop on the web and Adobe Express with every purchase. This move further emphasizes the Chromebook Plus’s potential for creative workflows.
Although my time with the Chromebook Plus was limited, I had the opportunity to test a few models. The Asus Chromebook Plus CX34, in particular, performed impressively despite its non-premium build quality. With 8GB of RAM, it offered more than sufficient memory, surpassing the standard 4GB found in many non-Plus Chromebooks. The quality of the keyboard and trackpad varied among different manufacturers and models. While the 1080p displays were generally good, some appeared slightly dimmer. The addition of AI enhancements for video calls was a notable feature, especially for those who frequently engage in virtual meetings. Moreover, many Chromebook Plus models come equipped with a variety of ports such as USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and some even feature physical shutters for webcams.
Although Google guarantees most specifications for the Chromebook Plus, the one aspect not explicitly assured is battery life. However, Google stated that the devices will need to meet the same 10-hour requirement mandated for all Chromebooks.
With the Chromebook Plus priced at $399 and $499, it surpasses the performance and capabilities of similarly priced budget Chromebooks. This improvement may pose a challenge to cheap Windows 11 laptops. Nevertheless, for prices exceeding $500, a Windows 11 machine like the Surface Laptop Go 3 may still be a preferable choice due to additional features and app compatibility.
In conclusion, Google’s Chromebook Plus offers enhanced performance, improved features, and an overall superior user experience compared to traditional Chromebooks. With a starting price of $399, these upgraded ChromeOS-powered laptops provide exceptional value for money. Furthermore, the inclusion of Google-powered features and exciting AI enhancements further enhances the appeal of the Chromebook Plus. Whether for creative work or everyday tasks, the Chromebook Plus is set to deliver a satisfying computing experience at an affordable price point.
