Google Challenges Mac/iPhone Duo With Seamless Laptop Experience
Google has announced Googlebooks, a new class of laptops that run Android and Chrome OS. This is an attempt to create a seamless experience between smartphones and laptops, similar to the pairing between Macs and iPhones.
The key features of Googlebooks include a backlit keyboard, touchscreen, studio-quality microphones, and a Glowbar LED light at the top. The Glowbar can be customized by developers and users, with options for color changes, animation, and even syncing with music playing on the laptop.
Google is also highlighting AI features in Googlebooks, such as Magic Pointer, which uses context to understand what's being looked at on the screen. Users can wiggle their mouse to pull up relevant information or create calendar events automatically.
Rambler, a feature previously available on Google Pixel phones, has been integrated into Googlebooks. This allows for real-time transcription in any text field and seamless transitions between Android apps on the laptop and phone.
Apps can be accessed through the Google Play Store, with optimized mobile and desktop experiences available. A higher tier of desktop apps is also available, designed specifically for the Googlebook experience.