Google brings new AI features to Chromebook Plus devices

Google announced a comprehensive AI upgrade for its Chromebook Plus portfolio today, introducing five new artificial intelligence-powered features directly integrated into ChromeOS. One of the new features is Circle to Search; since it’s coming to Chromebook, Google has dubbed it Select to Search. Other features are Text Capture, Quick Insert, and Simplify. Here’s all you need to know about all the new AI features coming to Chromebook Plus.

Select to Search is Circle to Search for ChromebooksThe new Select to search feature allows users to quickly identify and get information about anything on their screen by long-pressing the launcher button or using the screenshot tool. Similar to Android's Circle to Search function, users can select objects like clothing or products to find shopping options without leaving their current application.
Text Capture transforms images into editable text with calendar integrationText capture pulls information directly from images, including receipts and recipes, transforming it into editable text to eliminate manual retyping. The feature can automatically populate Google Calendar events from highlighted invitations and convert handwritten recipes into digital shopping lists in Google Docs.
One-button access to AI image creation and media insertionThe enhanced Quick Insert key now enables users to generate AI images or insert photos and emojis directly into documents and presentations without interrupting workflow. This builds on last year's Quick Insert functionality by adding Gemini's generative AI capabilities with a single keystroke.
New "Simplify" button makes dense content accessibleThe upgraded Help me read feature now includes a "Simplify" button that converts complex language into easier-to-understand text, expanding beyond its original summarization capabilities. This AI-powered tool helps users digest technical documents and academic papers more effectively.

Lenovo's new Chromebook Plus 14 gets some extra AI featuresThe new Chromebook Plus 14 includes Smart Grouping for automatic tab and document organization, plus AI-powered image editing in the Gallery app for background removal and sticker creation.

All new Chromebook Plus purchases include a complimentary 12-month Google AI Pro subscription, valued at $240, providing 2TB cloud storage and Gemini integration across Google Workspace apps.