What you need to know
- Google has begun rolling out the ChromeOS 130 update to Chromebook and Chromebook Plus devices.
- Chromebook Plus devices will receive new features like an AI-backed Recorder app, Quick Insert, Studio-style Mic, and more.
- All devices will get new OS-level privacy controls in the Chrome browser, a new “Focus” mode, and enhancements for Drive and Tote.
Google is currently releasing the major ChromeOS 130 update for Chromebooks, with special additions for its Plus variant.
The update is now available for more Chromebook and Chromebook Plus devices through the stable channel, as reported by PC World. Google has also provided a detailed changelog for the update on the Chromebook Community. The update starts with Chromebook Plus devices receiving the “Quick Insert” feature, allowing users to easily insert emojis, symbols, GIFs, and more with a simple shortcut.
This feature is expected to be available on a wider range of devices by 2025.
ChromeOS 130 introduces the Recorder app, bringing Chromebooks closer to Pixel phones’ experience. This AI-powered app offers speech-to-text generation, summarization, and title suggestions. The company had previously highlighted the app in October, showcasing its dual-column interface for real-time transcriptions.
The update also includes enhancements for the built-in microphone, known as “Studio-style Mic,” providing advanced balancing, fine details reconstruction, and room adaptation. Users can access this feature in Settings > Device > Audio.
Chromebook Plus devices will also receive appearance effects in video settings and a new AI-powered “Help me read” feature to summarize text and answer questions.
Other features in the ChromeOS 130 update include the “Focus” mode, available in Quick Settings to help reduce distractions with customizable timers and task selection. The update also adds a “Welcome Recap” option to resume where you left off and suggests options upon startup.
Google has also added a “Suggestions” section in Tote to highlight important files and updates, along with multi-calendar support and enhanced privacy controls.
Additional improvements include better keyboard and display brightness controls, as well as a picture-in-picture feature for windows.
Users can expect the ChromeOS 130 update to roll out gradually over the coming days, so keep an eye out for it on your Chromebook or Chromebook Plus.
This update follows Google’s announcement of new Chromebooks from Samsung and Lenovo, each offering unique features to enhance the user experience.