Google has officially launched preorders for its innovative Googlebooks, a new category of laptops that seamlessly blend Android’s mobile capabilities with the desktop features of ChromeOS. The initial offerings come from well-known manufacturers such as Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo, although Samsung is notably absent from this launch lineup. However, users of Galaxy phones can still enjoy the benefits of these features without needing a Samsung laptop.
Designed for effortless integration, Googlebooks are engineered to work harmoniously with Android phones right from the moment they are powered on. During the setup process, users can easily transfer vital information from their phones, including saved passwords, Wi-Fi networks, messages, and various settings, ensuring a smooth transition to the new device.
Pick up a task you started on your phone
One of the standout features is Continue On, which allows users to initiate a task on their Galaxy phone and pick it up later on the Googlebook’s taskbar. For instance, if you begin a project in BandLab on your phone, you can effortlessly continue working on it from your laptop. It’s important to note that this feature relies on app support, so not every application will be compatible.
Open your phone’s apps in a laptop window
Another impressive capability is Cast My Apps, which enables users to open and control applications from their Galaxy phone within a window on the Googlebook. This feature streams the app from the phone, eliminating the need to install a separate version on the laptop for quick tasks. Additionally, Googlebooks can directly install Android apps from the Play Store, providing a distinct experience compared to Cast My Apps, which accesses the app on the phone.
Access phone files and notifications
For those moments when you need a photo, document, or screenshot that resides on your Galaxy phone, Quick Access simplifies the process. This feature allows users to locate and open files through the Googlebook’s Files app without the hassle of transferring them first. Furthermore, Googlebooks will enable users to view and manage phone notifications, a functionality that aligns with the expectations of an Android-based operating system.
You will need One UI 9 (Android 17) or newer
To fully leverage these features, users must ensure their smartphones are running Android 17 or newer, specifically requiring One UI 9 or a later version. Samsung is anticipated to introduce its own interpretation of this technology in the future. According to reports from SamMobile, the company is currently developing Android-based Galaxy Book laptops that will incorporate One UI, potentially adding unique features from its software suite alongside Google’s phone-to-laptop functionalities, although specific details remain under wraps as of late September.
