Googlebooks with Intel chips face Android app performance issues

Google has acknowledged that some Android apps may not run smoothly on its new Intel-based Googlebook laptops right out of the box. The issue arises because many Android apps were originally designed for Arm chips, and a few complex apps or games may need developer tuning to perform optimally on Intel-based platforms. Google did not specify which apps are affected or how widespread the problem is.

The performance issues affect three Googlebook models manufactured by Lenovo, Acer, and Asus, which use Intel’s Panther Lake architecture. The two models from Dell and HP, powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite chips, are not expected to face these compatibility challenges. This problem is not surprising, as Intel silicon and Android software are not natively compatible, similar to how Qualcomm’s Arm-based chips are not optimized for Windows.

Google previously noted that running Android apps on x86 silicon can result in reduced performance and battery life due to real-time code translation. This incompatibility could be a challenge for Google, as the Googlebook lineup was marketed as premium laptops designed to seamlessly integrate ChromeOS, Gemini AI, and the full library of Android apps. If popular apps experience performance issues, the promise of smooth transitions between phone and computer use may be compromised.

CNET’s Managing Editor Josh Goldman suggested that while app incompatibilities are a consideration, they are not a major concern unless the Googlebook is being used for mission-critical work. He advised checking with app developers about compatibility before purchasing an Intel-based model. The first wave of Googlebooks is now available, with prices starting at $899 for the Acer model and $1,299 for other configurations.