ChromeOS's new multi-tasking feature will remind you of Windows 11
Google has launched a new update for ChromeOS, introducing several enhancements aimed at improving user experience on Chromebook devices. The most significant addition in the ChromeOS 128 update is the 'Snap Groups' feature. This functionality, reminiscent of Windows 11's Snap layouts, allows users to group apps together in various fullscreen layouts. It can be activated by hovering over the maximize app button, just like in Microsoft's system.
Snap Groups: Take a look at the feature
The Snap Groups feature is designed to enhance multitasking on ChromeOS. It allows users to pair two separate windows together for a split-screen view. These paired windows can be individually resized, moved as a group, or detached at any time. This new functionality aims to simplify app organization and improve productivity for Chromebook users.
ChromeOS camera app now supports OCR
The latest update also integrates Optical Character Recognition (OCR) into the ChromeOS camera app. This feature enables users to extract text from images of documents or letters. It simplifies the process of converting images into searchable PDFs, copying or searching text in images, and having the built-in screen reader vocalize image-based text. Google's OCR supports both horizontal and vertical detection in 77 languages but is disabled by default in photo mode.
Enhanced accessibility with Magnifier tool, ChromeVox
The ChromeOS 128 update also improves accessibility for visually impaired users. The Magnifier tool now works in conjunction with ChromeVox, allowing the screen magnifier to automatically follow words as text is read aloud. This feature helps users keep their place while listening to spoken content. However, it is disabled by default and requires both Magnifier and ChromeVox to be activated in the device settings.
Simplified privacy controls, improved audio quality
The new update also introduces user-friendly adjustments to Chromebook cameras and microphones. Previously, enabling privacy controls and app permissions required navigating to two separate locations. Now, Google has streamlined this process by adding software permissions to the apps section of the ChromeOS settings menu. Additionally, an Auto Gain Control (AGC) feature has been introduced that allows apps like video calling software to automatically adjust microphone volume for improved audio quality on calls.
