Google unveils Googlebook, a new Gemini-first laptop category powered by a new modern OS

When cloud computing was in its emerging stage more than 15 years ago, Google launched the Chromebook, a browser-first laptop targeting students. Now, Google is trying to rethink laptops again with the announcement of Googlebook, a new category of devices that combines Android, ChromeOS, Gemini Intelligence, and premium hardware.

Unlike Chromebooks, which were mostly targeted toward ultra-low-cost devices, Googlebooks will be built with premium hardware. It is powered by a modern OS that brings together Android’s app ecosystem through Google Play with ChromeOS’ browser-first experience. As expected, Gemini is integrated throughout the OS.

One of the key features of Googlebook is Magic Pointer. Magic Pointer can surface contextual Gemini-powered suggestions based on what users point at on the screen. This is similar to Windows 11's "Click to Do" feature that analyzes what is on the screen and then allows users to take action. For example, users can point at a date in an email to create a meeting on their calendar.

Googlebook will also include a "Create your Widget" feature that will allow users to create their own custom desktop widgets using natural language prompts. Google mentioned that users can use these widgets to organize flight details, hotel bookings, restaurant reservations, and more. The Create your Widget feature is also coming to the latest Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones later this year.

Google is also adopting a concept similar to Windows 11's Phone Link. The new "Cast My Apps" feature in Googlebook will allow users to access their Android phone apps from their laptop. Google also highlighted the "Quick Access" feature, which will allow users to view, search, or insert files from their phone directly through the Googlebook file browser. It is important to note that Windows 11 already has a similar feature in File Explorer to browse files stored on a connected smartphone.

Google has not shared full specifications or pricing for Googlebooks yet. However, Google confirmed that Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo are working on Googlebook hardware, and they are expected to become available this fall. These upcoming laptops will come in different form factors and will feature premium materials. Additionally, all of them will include a distinctive "glowbar," offering a visual branding for the new category.