Google brings phone integration and AI tools to its new laptops, but missing browser features and app limitations complicate the premium pitch.
Googlebook laptops have launched with an Android-powered operating system, premium hardware and closer links to Android phones. Google and its hardware partners are positioning the devices as successors to Chromebooks, with prices starting at $899.
The launch follows Google’s plan to move its laptop platform from ChromeOS to Android. However, the new system still lacks some familiar browser features, while its software options centre on web tools and Android apps.
Googlebook laptops target premium buyers
Acer’s Googlebook 14 starts at $899, making it the only launch model priced below $1,000. Meanwhile, the $1,299 ASUS Googlebook 14 combines an Intel Core Ultra 5 processor with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.
The ASUS model also weighs 2.2 pounds and features an OLED touchscreen with Corning Gorilla Matte glass. HP’s Googlebook 14 offers another processor option, using Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite X1E-80-100.
Google puts phone connectivity at the centre of setup. Users can scan a QR code with an Android phone, connect to Wi-Fi and transfer their Google account details. They can also choose to copy apps and data.
After granting permissions, users can access phone notifications and files from the laptop. The introductory walkthrough also highlights Gemini-powered tools, including Magic Pointer, Quick Insert and voice conversations through Gemini Live.
The desktop retains a ChromeOS-style app taskbar, but moves notifications, time and settings access to a top strip. It also supports desktop widgets.
Browser features and app compatibility matter
Chrome remains central to the experience. However, saved tab groups do not currently sync to Googlebooks, even though Chrome supports that feature across other desktop and mobile platforms. Google says a future update will add it.
A Chrome update has already addressed an early problem with installing web apps in separate windows. Users can now keep services such as Slack and Trello outside their main browser window.
Meanwhile, the Play Store supplies Android apps, although their large-screen layouts vary. Slack’s Android version uses a single view rather than the multi-column layout available in its desktop version.
Other apps, including Todoist and Spotify, support multi-column displays. Google’s Play Store also selects web versions for some services, such as Google Chat, rather than always installing an Android app.
However, users cannot install desktop software such as Adobe Premiere or Logic Pro. For gaming, Google includes a year of GeForce Now Fast Pass access, offering up to 50 streaming hours monthly. The package also provides priority access and removes free-tier advertisements, but requires an internet connection.
