What you need to know

• Google has confirmed that new Googlebook 2-in-1 "detachables" are coming "soon"
• The form factor will allow users to remove their laptop's keyboard and use the display like a tablet
• Lenovo is reportedly set to release a new Chromebook Duet successor in the form factor, rumored to be called the Googlebook Duet m

Google has confirmed that new 2-in-1 detachable Googlebook models are on the way.

The announcement comes from a segment of the recent Android Dev Summit 2026 keynote, in which Marisol Ryu, Google's director of product management for laptops and tablets, described the current Googlebook lineup.

"We worked closely with five top-tier laptop OEMs to build a fleet of high-end laptops designed to handle modern workloads," she said. "Googlebooks span large-screen form factors from clamshells, convertibles, and, soon, detachables."

This is the first official word on the new Googlebook form factor, which will allow users to remove their laptop's keyboard and use the touch-screen display more like a traditional Android tablet.

Second two none

Even so, the announcement shouldn't come as much of a surprise to those who have been keeping up with rumors over the last few months.

Images of a 2-in-1 detachable model purportedly manufactured by Lenovo and called the Googlebook Duet m leaked all the way back in November, shortly after the release of the first wave of Googlebook models.

The name and overall design point to this upcoming device being a successor to the Lenovo Chromebook Duet line, a selection of budget-friendly 2-in-1 detachable laptops that were particularly popular with students.

While the Chromebook Duet line ran on ChromeOS, the leaked Googlebook Duet m will presumably be powered by Googlebook OS: the company's new Android-based operating system. Android app compatibility and AI capabilities will likely be a focus and, in keeping with the current Googlebook Lineup, this new model's price is expected to be higher than its ChromeOS predecessors.

It remains to be seen whether other manufacturers will release their own 2-in-1 detachable models

Google is rolling out its November update for Googlebook, and it includes a handful of improvements to make the platform more reliable and less frustrating to use.

The biggest change is in how Googlebook handles memory used by its on-device AI services. Google has updated its NPU driver and optimized AICore memory management, freeing up 3GB to 6GB of system RAM, as per a Reddit post by Google's Mishaal Rahman. That’s a significant bump for laptops with 16GB of RAM, especially when jumping between a lot of apps and browser tabs.

Chrome should also behave better under heavier workloads. The update improves the way the system reclaims memory when background AI services conflict with browser processes, reducing the chances of unexpected tab reloads and crashes. I’m almost tempted to say the update is the kind of fix that arguably should have been in place before Googlebook launched, but better late than never.

The November release covers a wide range of hardware and software issues. Convertibles should no longer lose keyboard and touchpad input when you switch between tablet and laptop modes. Google has also fixed Zoom crashes using simulated backgrounds, filters, blur effects, and 3D avatars.

External displays get a little love, too. Now you should be able to play DRM-protected streaming content such as Netflix, rather than just seeing a black screen. USB microphones and multichannel audio interfaces should work as expected too. Bluetooth users can also get lower audio-video synchronization delays and more reliable reconnection for wireless mice.

Linux users and security get some love, too

Google hasn't forgotten about those who use Googlebook for development work. The Linux Terminal beta brings in a bunch of fixes, including more reliable shell sessions after sleep, better SSH port forwarding, and improved multi-window management. Google also fixed a memory leak when closing terminal tabs and made Linux VM updates less destructive, preserving user storage and custom SSH configurations.

Security is another part of the release. The Android security patch for November 1, 2026 resolves around 60 vulnerabilities. Google also updated the Linux 6.18 kernel and Ti50 security chip firmware, fixing unexpected restarts, boot loops, and noisy fans.

Google says the update is being rolled out gradually to supported models, including devices from Acer, ASUS, Lenovo, HP, and Dell. Owners can find it under Settings > System > System Update. You want the build number CL3B.260622.286.R2.

Early reactions on Reddit have been largely positive, with some owners already reporting smoother performance. That said, users are reporting issues, including Chrome spell check and notification syncing problems after waking from sleep.

What you need to know

• Googlebook is finally adding Better Together support for Samsung Galaxy phones after leaving them out at launch.
• Samsung phones running One UI 9.0 based on Android 17 can access Continue On, Cast My Apps, Quick Access, and Notification Sync.
• A separate Google Play services update fixes a pairing bug that leaves the QR code onscreen after a successful connection.

Google is finally addressing one of the biggest issues with Googlebook at launch by bringing some of Googlebook’s Better Together features to Samsung Galaxy phones and making the initial setup less frustrating.

The big draw for the Googlebook is its deep integration with your phone. You can stream mobile apps to the laptop, sync notifications, access phone files, and use Continue On to pick up supported activities on another device. However, Samsung users were left out when Googlebook launched, despite Samsung being one of the biggest names in the Android ecosystem. Google had promised support would come in the next few weeks.

The rollout, as revealed by Google’s Mishaal Rahman on Reddit, is essentially a fix for a pairing bug, but Galaxy owners will need the right software versions before their phones can fully take advantage of the laptop’s Android integration.

This update works with Samsung smartphones with One UI 9.0 based on Android 17. Supported features include Continue On, Cast My Apps, Quick Access, and Notification Sync.

Another separate update to Google Play services should make the setup process easier and fix an annoying bug that sometimes leaves the pairing QR code onscreen even after the phone has connected.

Google says the changes will be rolled out automatically in the coming days via updates through Google Play and background services. To get everything working sooner, make sure Google Play services is version 26.37 or newer and Cross-device services is version 1.0.1346 or newer. Both devices need to use the same Google account, with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi turned on.

Your network can make a difference too. Google recommends using a private home network because connections between devices may be blocked on public Wi-Fi networks at hotels, offices, and cafes. Disabling a VPN or DNS blocker temporarily can also help with pairing issues.

Early feedback indicates the rollout is already making a difference. Some Galaxy S26 Ultra owners have reported that app casting now works while others wait for compatibility on their devices.

The update is a welcome fix but also points to a problem with the launch of Googlebook: core features weren’t ready for a large percentage of Android users. Samsung support would make the platform more convincing if Google can deliver a consistent experience across supported phones.

What you need to know

• Google says certain Googlebooks won't feature full Android app support.
• In a statement, the company warns Googlebooks with Intel processors (Acer, ASUS, and Lenovo) may struggle to support certain apps from the Play Store, but Qualcomm processors (HP and Dell) are fine.
• Googlebook pre-orders opened September 21 and fully launched October 4 (U.S.) and 5 (U.K., etc.)

The Googlebook is available for consumers to start the week, but the company behind it revealed something important — they won't run all Android apps.

Earlier this morning (Oct. 5), the folks at Android Authority reached out to Google concerning the Googlebooks' app support capabilities. The company revealed something crucial: Not every Googlebook is made equal. According to the company, Googlebooks with Intel processors might struggle to support all Android apps that are available via the Play Store, because the majority of Android apps were made to suit ARM chips in phones.

"A small handful of complex apps or games need some developer tuning to run their best on Intel-based platforms," Google told the publication. While the company says it is working with devs, Intel, and Qualcomm to rectify this issue, consumers might not have to worry. "The vast majority of Android apps run smoothly," no matter if you're using an Intel Googlebook or one from Qualcomm, the company advised.

Poor support could mean a myriad of things in today's age. Would these apps not work completely, or would users encounter glitches and frequent error codes? Moreover, are we certain that Intel's chips are capable of running major apps (we'd assume so)?

For the record, the Acer, ASUS, and Lenovo Googlebooks all utilize the Intel Core Ultra 5 processor. Everything else (HP and Dell) relies on Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite.

Googlebooks are here

Googlebook pre-orders officially opened on September 21. It was a momentous occasion following Google's earlier laptop reveal during The Android Show. This first wave includes laptops from companies previously mentioned, with prices starting at $899. A few major features include touchscreens, haptic glass trackpads, backlit keyboards, and strong Android phone pairing.

In particular, Magic Pointer is a standout feature for the Googlebook. It brings Gemini directly to your mouse pointer, so you can call on the AI for help whenever you need it. If you don't feel like putting money down for a Googlebook, don't worry. Google started rolling Magic Pointer out in Chrome for Windows and Mac computers.

Consumers can find the Googlebook at the Google Store, Best Buy, and other retailers. There is a motley of included goodies—free trials and the like.

What you need to know

• A rumor on social media claims Samsung is working on a Googlebook and that its specifications have appeared on Geekbench.
• The device was listed with the Snapdragon X Elite (like the other Googlebooks) with 16GB RAM and Android 17.
• The first wave of Googlebooks opened for pre-orders in mid-September with a starting price of $899 from ASUS, Dell, HP, and more.

The Big G recently launched its Googlebook series of laptops, which replace the old (but gold?) Chromebooks. And one social media user claims to have spotted Samsung's entry into the series.

A post by tipster Abhishek Yadav on X claims Samsung's "first Googlebook" is passing through Geekbench with some interesting specifications (via Android Headlines). Among the listed specs is Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite SoC. This is what the first wave of Googlebooks also features. The tipster states the listing details the chip with 12 cores: four clock in at 3.42GHz, while another eight are at 4.01GHz.

Right beside the SoC is the alleged laptop's GPU: the Adreno X1-85. Elsewhere, Geekbench's listing suggests Samsung's first Googlebook could feature Android 17 as its software with 16GB of RAM.

What's interesting is a previous rumor from SamMobile. The publication once alleged that Samsung's upcoming laptop, which appears to be a Googlebook, would feature Android software. But those rumors claim Samsung could try to place its One UI design atop the OS, much like a Galaxy S phone or Galaxy Z foldable.

It is still incredibly early. Details are scarce, and more is expected to come to light.

The second wave?

Googlebooks were revealed during The Android Show in May and marked the future of Google's laptops, which were previously known as Chromebooks. Skip ahead to September 21, when open pre-orders got underway for the first wave, courtesy of ASUS, Dell, HP, and more. And Samsung was nowhere to be found. Wave two, perhaps?

The Googlebook lineup starts at $899. Consumers can find them through Google or retailers like Best Buy. The laptops feature touchscreens, haptic glass trackpads, and backlit keyboards. Strong Android pairing was another key highlight for Google. Users can sign in, bringing over their Android phone settings, saved passwords, messages, and more. Then, you have Magic Pointer.

Magic Pointer is a standout AI feature for the Googlebook. Users need only hover over something with their mouse pointer and call on Gemini to help. We may have been hesitant about the Googlebook, but after spending some time with them at Snapdragon Summit, they've surprised us.

Qualcomm provided travel and lodging to Snapdragon Summit. There was no additional compensation, and Qualcomm did not have any input on this article prior to publication.

This year's Snapdragon Summit came and went, and I was fortunate enough to be on the ground in Maui to check out everything that Qualcomm and its partners had to show off. From powerful new smartphone chips to very interesting smartphones, more capable earbuds to chonky AR smart glasses, and, of course, the first batch of Googlebooks.

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 Extreme was the star of the show, but Summit also showcased a host of devices powered by Qualcomm's latest chip and other Snapdragon platforms. Here are some of the most interesting things I saw during Snapdragon Summit 2026.

Xiaomi 18 Pro comes with two unique displays

It's not too surprising, but Xiaomi was the first Android OEM to launch a smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series. In fact, it has two phones, the Xiaomi 18 Pro and 18 Pro Max, sporting each of the new Snapdragon chips.

Beyond using some of the most powerful smartphone chips, the Xiaomi 18 Pro series has unique features you won't find on most Android smartphones. The most obvious is the rear display, which lets users set customizable wallpapers, check notifications, adjust settings, and even take selfies using the rear 200MP cameras.

In addition, the front OLED display utilizes a new pixel layout that lets the Xiaomi 18 Pro utilize a new privacy display feature, similar to the Galaxy S26 Ultra. With it, you can hide the contents of your display from onlookers while still seeing your display clearly. It's also customizable, so you can hide only notifications or specific apps.

The Xiaomi 18 Pro is available in China, with a global launch coming soon.

Motorola Signature 27 brings the heat to Samsung

The original Motorola Signature didn't make it to North America, but its successor, the Signature 27, will launch globally later this year. The phone is a true Motorola flagship, powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6, with a completely new design and some impressive-sounding cameras.

The main camera is a 50MP Lytia 910, and there's also a 200MP periscope telephoto lens, with cameras supported by Qualcomm's Image Stabilization tech and the device’s 3.5-degree OIS hardware. This is all housed in a striking camera layout, covered in ceramic and brushed aluminum.

Motorola is also partnering with Bang & Olufsen to deliver a high-quality audio experience and has promised up to seven years of software updates, which is pretty rare for Moto phones.

We don't know exactly when the Signature 27 will be available, but it's at least coming in 2026, so it won't be much longer.

Snapdragon gaming is getting a major boost

The Snapdragon 8 Elite Extreme Gen 6 is a powerful chipset that promises to upgrade your gaming experience with a new Adreno Neural Fusion. This enables new features like advanced AI frame generation for smoother gameplay and Super Resolution to improve graphics quality.

During my hands-on with reference devices, I played a game that used both features and could toggle them on or off to see the difference. This also included Unreal Engine's Lumen lighting engine.

The visual and gameplay differences were quite obvious, and Qualcomm says developers could decide themselves which of the Adreno Neural Fusion features they want to utilize for their games for the best experience.

Googlebooks bring your phone to your laptop

Google has finally introduced the next evolution of Chromebooks, and it features a lot more Android. The first batch of Googlebooks is here, with devices from HP and Dell running the new Googlebook OS and powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite.

The result is a more premium experience than what you'd expect from most Chromebooks. For starters, the Googlebook OS is built on an Android foundation, so it's more capable than what's possible on current Chromebooks. This makes it easier to add more features to the OS and supports AI features like Rambler, Gemini Live, Magic Pointer, and more.

Googlebooks can also access the full suite of apps on the Play Store, and connecting to your phone is now easier and more intuitive. You can access your phone's files from your laptop without plugging them in, drag and drop files between devices, and even cast apps from your phone to the laptop with ease.

Googlebooks start at $899, and they'll eventually come down in price and replace Chromebooks. But for now, the Googlebook experience is shaping up to be a premium one.

Snap Specs are cooler than I thought

Snap Specs were announced in July, but I finally got my hands on Snap's rather divisive AR glasses. Given their bulky design, I expected to hate them. However, once I put them on, it was clear that Snap has done something quite impressive.

Unlike other dual-display smart glasses, Specs don't require an external puck for battery and processing; everything is squeezed into the glasses, including the two Snapdragon processors, which is part of why they're so huge. That said, despite their size, they're surprisingly light and comfortable to wear.

I was able to play with a few demos, including a Harry Potter experience and a putting app. I was rather impressed with how well the glasses tracked my hand movements and anchored content to my environment. It felt a bit like using a Meta Quest 3 headset, but on a smaller, more comfortable pair of glasses. And while the Specs features some surprisingly good visuals, I was fairly disappointed in the field of view, which was rather narrow.

I can't imaging these going mainstream, but they're still pretty cool for anyone willing to spend $2,195 on these.

Your headphones are getting new superpowers

Alongside the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 6 series, Qualcomm also introduced the Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2, which promises some pretty neat features for your next pair of headphones.

While headphones and earbuds generally route AI requests to your smartphone, Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 brings micro-power Wi-Fi, so your earbuds can connect to your AI assistant or other services without your smartphone. And with Snapdragon Sound Apps & Agents, manufacturers can build on these experiences, which could greatly enhance your audio experience.

In one demo, I translated audio from several languages into English directly on the headphones I was using. Another demo highlighted the AI capabilities, where the earbuds enhanced the voice of the person speaking directly in front of me.

The best part is that Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 is targeting not only headphones and earbuds, but also smart glasses, AI wearables, hearing aids, and even a new category of camera buds.

Your glasses want to be your next doctor

In an interesting demo, I saw how medical professionals could use smart glasses to help diagnose you. A nurse or doctor could wear smart glasses while assessing you, and the glasses would use visual cues to decide what questions to ask next to get the right information.

While I'm not sure if something like this would be well-received by the public right now, especially when there's so much scrutiny surrounding the use of smart glasses, I can see how something like this could be used to help medical professionals triage patients, especially during busy times when there may be a wait to see an actual doctor.

This also appears to be part of Qualcomm's new Personal AI Health Alliance, which aims to make the health data our wearables capture meaningful through a more proactive, detailed, and accessible approach.

Qualcomm provided travel and lodging to Snapdragon Summit. There was no additional compensation, and Qualcomm did not have any input on this article prior to publication.

Earlier this year, Google introduced what had long been rumored: Android on your laptop. Googlebooks seem like a natural evolution of Chromebooks, and I got to spend some time with some of the first models at Qualcomm's Snapdragon Summit.

I expected it wouldn't be very different from Chromebooks, and that's... kind of true. Googlebooks aim to take the best parts of ChromeOS and Android and merge them into a very capable computing OS that can take advantage of AI and better connect to your smartphone.

I never quite liked Chromebooks, but I find myself quite compelled by the prospect of Googlebooks, even if the barrier to entry feels a bit high right now.

Not the Chromebook you remember

One major way the new Googlebooks differ from Chromebooks is their price. Chromebooks are compelling because they are available at very low price points, which benefits schools and other institutions with limited budgets. However, Chromebooks in their current form are pushing for a more premium experience, with the cheapest laptop costing $899.

That's still cheaper than most lower-end MacBooks, but prices can easily hit over $1,000, depending on the model and configuration. I was told this is because it's much easier to start at the higher end and work your way down than to start low and work your way up.

It's clear that Google wants to ensure that Googlebooks are seen as a premium computing experience before bringing cheaper options that will eventually supplant Chromebooks.

It's easy to see this in the hardware available. At Snapdragon Summit, I got to play with two Snapdragon X Elite-powered Googlebooks, the HP Googlebook 14 ($1,299) and Dell XPS Googlebook ($999). They feature exceptional hardware that looks and feels premium, something I never quite got from the Chromebooks I've used (though I know higher-end models exist).

The HP has a larger 14-inch OLED display that looks phenomenal, with a sharp resolution and deep blacks for more vibrant images. It also has comfortable keys and a large trackpad. Meanwhile, the Dell XPS has a smaller LCD panel with thin bezels and a matte finish to reduce reflections. Its aluminum build reminds me a bit of a MacBook, which speaks to how light and premium it feels in hand.

Both laptops share similar specs, including 16GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. They also feature built-in fingerprint sensors and the distinctive Glowbar, which offers functions like displaying battery life, Gemini interactions, and more. There's also a hidden easter egg that unlocks more controls, but I was told users have to find it themselves.

I'm not sure why Google is hiding this Glowbar control panel, since it feels like an essential or even fun part of the experience. Fortunately, Google plans to expand Glow Bar functionality, but for now it's a bit limited, just like HiLight on the Pixel 11 Pro.

Many UI elements also just feel very familiar. The quick settings panel feels very Pixel and sits in the top-right corner. The Settings app also looks like it came straight out of a Pixel Tablet, so anyone coming from an Android phone should feel at home.

You can also pin widgets to the home screen for glanceable info and create app folders, just like on an Android phone.

All about AI

What will further help Googlebooks shake the Chromebook perception is its capabilities. Thanks to more powerful chipsets like the Snapdragon X Elite, as well as Android being the foundation for the Googlebook OS, these devices are more capable than Chromebooks in a few areas, and much of that has to do with AI capabilities.

Googlebook really shines in its ability to perform more AI functions you'd normally find on an Android smartphone. One example I saw during my hands-on was Rambler, which lets users dictate notes, emails, and documents using natural language. The AI automatically filters out "ums" and even accounts for moments when you seem to change your mind about something you said.

What's neat is that Googlebooks come with a dedicated Rambler key, so you can easily access this with a tap.

One feature I think I'll get plenty of mileage out of is the Magic Pointer. It almost feels like a desktop Circle to Search: you can activate it by wiggling the pointer a bit, and it will prompt you to click an item on your screen you want to know more about. You can ask about one thing or add multiple items, and a Gemini dialogue opens in a side panel.

It feels like a natural evolution of the cursor, giving you easy access to Gemini when you need it. And speaking of Gemini, there's also Gemini Live, with a neat little circular UI similar to what you find on an Android phone, plus proactive intelligence and automation features, so you can have your computer complete tasks for you, just like on your phone.

And remember when I mentioned widgets? Well, you can use AI to create your own widget, and you can be as specific as you want. When demoing this feature, the widget creator was given a very specific, long-winded instruction to create a widget that would display the 49ers' points scored, comparisons with rival teams, and Brock Purdy's passing yards, all in a purple and neon-colored widget. And within less than a minute, it appeared on the desktop.

I can see this being a very useful feature for people who like to use their desktops like notepads. I also can't help but think of Windows 8 and its Tile interface, which were essentially dynamic "widgets" that filled your screen, although this feels more functional and a bit less jarring.

Finally, because Googlebooks run on the Android foundation, it's easy to download pretty much any app or game from the Play Store. You can also easily connect your phone to your Googlebook, search through your phone's app drawer, and cast apps directly to your desktop.

I didn't get to see this in action, but this sounds like an evolution of Phone Hub on Chromebooks. It also reminds me of Motorola's Smart Connect, which can do the same, though a native experience should be more useful.

For example, Continue On is a Handoff-like feature that lets you start one task on your phone and continue it on your laptop. And by connecting your phone to a Googlebook, you can easily swap files between devices without needing Quick Share or a physical connection.

A promising start

I didn't get to spend much time with the Googlebooks, and this is only a small selection of devices, with other options powered by Intel and even MediaTek chips. Still, it's a promising start for Google's computing ambitions, and I can't wait to see where the company takes it, especially as it moves down in price point.

We'll still have Chromebooks for a while, and some may even be able to update to Googlebook OS at some point in the future. While Google is working with developers to better optimize games for these larger screens, you shouldn't expect native PC-like AAA games on Googlebook, though you can still use GeForce NOW to stream games to your device.

So, Googlebook may not be for everyone, but it feels like a viable option for Android users who need to stay productive on the go when a tablet won't suffice, and it could also be a go-to option for students.

I was never a fan of Chromebooks, but I will admit that even I'm intrigued by Googlebooks, and I'm seriously considering switching from Windows.

It's official: the Googlebook is coming, and while this laptop isn't receiving as many preorder deals as, say, a new Android phone might, there is one offer that you should know about. Preorder one of the new laptops ahead of their October 4th release date and Best Buy will give you a free pair of Google Pixel Buds 2a (in Hazel), no strings attached. There's also some trade-in credit up for grabs if you have an old laptop lying around.

Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo are all launching their Googlebooks on the aforementioned date, and this preorder deal from Best Buy presents an easy way to get equipped with two pieces of Pixel tech in one fell swoop. Now if they'll just throw in a free Google Pixel phone, it will really be a party...

What is a Googlebook?

Designed as a successor to Chromebooks, Googlebooks are laptops built for integration into the modern AI-focused device ecosystem. These premium laptops feature touchscreen displays with great battery life (up to 14 hours) and the latest processors from Intel and Qualcomm, plus you'll get to experience a ton of new software features that seamlessly connect the Googlebook with your Android phone.

Other specs include backlit keyboards, convertible designs, and 16GB of RAM out of the box. Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo are all participating in the initial Googlebook launch, with devices that range from $899 to $1,299 for OLED models. In addition to the free wireless earbuds, your preorder will come with free limited subscriptions to YouTube Premium, Adobe Premiere, and Google AI Pro subscriptions.

What you need to know

• Googlebooks are finally here, and Google says pre-orders have begun as promised today (Sept. 21).
• The Googlebooks feature touchscreens, haptic glass trackpads, backlit keyboards, and strong Android phone pairing.
• The company says users can cast apps or stop and start projects from their Android phone on their Googlebook.
• Googlebooks from ASUS, Dell, HP, and more start at $899; available at Best Buy, Google Store, and other retailers ahead of an October 4 market release.

In case you haven't checked your phone, it's September 21. Googlebook pre-orders officially begin today, and Google's full announcement is finally here.

Today (Sept. 21), Google announced that pre-orders for the first wave of Googlebooks have begun. The post states that Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo build this initial wave. Pre-orders are open, and laptops begin at $899. Each brand features distinct craftsmanship, ranging from custom keyboards to cinematic audio. Google states these laptops from these brands were crafted in "premium materials like aluminum, magnesium alloy, and carbon fiber, making them exceptionally light, sleek, and durable.."

These Googlebooks provide touchscreens with up to 2.8K OLED displays, haptic glass trackpads, and backlit keyboards. Powered by Qualcomm and Intel processors (depending on the brand), these laptops also offer up to 14 hours of battery life. It's also hard not to mention that the Glowbar is back.

Google says this illuminates on startup and offers information about your battery percentage, as well as fancy animations when talking to Gemini.

You also shouldn't miss out on what's powering the Googlebook: Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite. The first Googlebooks are being powered by this chip, delivering a 12-core Oryon CPU setup, clocking in at up to 4GHz.

Google is taking its Android software on the Googlebook seriously this time around. These laptops "bring the best of the web and the Play Store" to consumers, but everything you enjoy on your phone is right on your Googlebook.

The post states that when users sign in, everything moves with them. By "everything," Google means your "Android phone’s settings, saved passwords, Wi-Fi networks, and messages." Users can pick up where they left off with projects or booking tickets at a venue. App casting makes it easy to continue what you're doing on your phone, but on a bigger screen. Additionally, you can search your phone's files from your computer. The Googlebook's Files app lets users "view, search, and open files and photos" from their Android phone.

We briefly mentioned the Googlebook's support for the web and Play Store, but the company stresses this for the user experience. Major apps like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom feel right at home on the Googlebook, alongside streaming services and games (since the Play Store is supported). What's more, users can launch AAA titles from popular gaming studios thanks to "a complimentary year of GeForce NOW included with every purchase."

Of course, Google wouldn't leave out its AI: Gemini. Googlebooks feature "Magic Pointer." If you remember its I/O 2026 reveal, you'll recognize this feature. Magic Pointer lets users bring Gemini directly to what they're looking at on their screen by wiggling their pointer. When it appears, you can give it a task to complete or ask for assistance. Among the major Pixel 11 features this year, there was Rambler.

This spruces up your text, cutting out any filler words you might've said while speaking. Elsewhere, consumers will find "Create My Widget" with AI, which will create a custom widget displaying information you want.

Meet the Googlebook

As previously stated, pre-orders are open today (Sept. 21) for the Googlebook. Users can pre-order a laptop from Best Buy and the Google Store, alongside other retailers. The Googlebook won't arrive on shelves until October 4 in the U.S. Consumers in Canada will see them on October 5 with the U.K., Ireland, France, Germany, and Australia. There are also several goodies you'll earn upon purchasing a Googlebook for Google AI Pro and YouTube Premium.

What you need to know

• Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite is powering Googlebook, a new laptop category built specifically for Gemini Intelligence.
• Equipped with a 12-core Oryon CPU (up to 4GHz) and a Hexagon NPU pushing 45 TOPS, the platform is engineered to run complex generative and agentic AI directly on-device.
• Preorders are open now for the first wave of hardware, including the HP Googlebook 14 and new models from Dell.

Qualcomm today announced it will bring its Snapdragon X Elite platform to the first Googlebook laptops, a collaboration with Google to power a new breed of computers built around Gemini Intelligence.

Dell and HP are the first manufacturers to release Googlebook devices, and both models are currently available for preorder.

The collaboration pairs Google’s Gemini-based software with the Snapdragon X Elite’s emphasis on performance, efficiency, and on-device AI. Qualcomm’s platform also features a 12-core Oryon CPU that can clock up to 4GHz and a Hexagon NPU that can deliver up to 45 TOPS, meaning Googlebook will have dedicated hardware for generative and agentic AI workloads.

Googlebook also aims to make Android devices feel more connected to the laptop. Qualcomm's press release mentioned features including Cast my Apps, Magic Pointer, and Rambler, which are designed to provide information from e-mail, calendars, and on-screen content. Native Android app and game support also broadens what users can run directly on the laptop.

The Snapdragon hardware also has plenty of connectivity and display support. It supports Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, LPDDR5x memory with up to 135GB/s bandwidth and up to three external 4K displays at 60Hz. The platform also supports 4K HDR capture and can decode 4K120 video.

Again, preorders are already open for the first wave of hardware, including the HP Googlebook 14 and new designs from Dell. HP’s Samuel Chang says the HP Googlebook 14 blends Snapdragon efficiency with Gemini smarts for productivity.

Should Qualcomm and Google fulfill their promises of smooth multi-device continuity and serious NPU efficiency, this shift could finally give Windows laptops and MacBooks a run for their money in everyday productivity.

What you need to know

• Leaked images of the ASUS Googlebook show a distinctive dark gray chassis, slim display bezels, a giant trackpad.
• We're also seeing a dedicated Google "G" key and a signature glowing, multicolored light bar on the lid.
• The physical hardware looks practical, packing two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, a headphone jack, and a fingerprint sensor.

Google’s first Googlebooks will be available for preorder on September 21, and a new set of ASUS images is giving us a much better look at what one of these new laptops will actually look like.

The ASUS model has a familiar laptop shape, but it’s clear Google is trying to give the new category a visual identity of its own. Leaked images from The Mac Observer reveal that the new Chromebook features a dark gray body, a large touchpad, thin display bezels, a dedicated Google "G" key, and a multicolor light bar on the lid.

There’s an ASUS logo at the bottom of that glowing strip and “Googlebook” branding on the palm rest.

The hardware looks refreshingly practical too. Side views show at least two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, and a headphone jack, giving users plenty of options for peripherals without immediately having to reach for a dongle. There’s also a fingerprint sensor and a keyboard that appears to have a reasonable amount of key travel.

From the leaked renders, it looks like ASUS is using active cooling on the inside with a fan and heat pipe visible. That implies this particular Googlebook could be aimed at heavier workloads than today’s average Chromebook, although the processor and other specs are unknown.

Googlebook is Google’s new premium laptop class that blends Android tech with the familiar desktop feel and Gemini features like Magic Pointer, Create My Widget, Cast My Apps, and Quick Access. ASUS is one of five launch partners, alongside Acer, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

The big missing pieces are price, exact specs, shipping dates, and whether this ASUS model will be available on September 21. Those answers should be coming soon, as Googlebook moves from leaked hardware to something you can actually order.

What you need to know

• Googlebook pre-orders will officially open on September 21 at 9 a.m. ET, Google has confirmed.
• The first Googlebooks are expected from brands including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.
• Googlebooks will focus heavily on Gemini, with features like Magic Pointer and AI-generated custom widgets.

Google has revealed that you'll finally be able to pre-order the first Googlebooks starting next week.

At The Android Show earlier this year, Google had its "one more thing" moment when it teased its next category of premium laptops called Googlebooks. Google says these are a new category of laptops built for the "intelligence system" era, but at the time, the company didn't reveal much about the devices or when you'd actually be able to buy one.

Now, Google has started emailing users confirming that Googlebook pre-orders will open on September 21 at 9 a.m. ET. The company hasn't revealed exactly which models will be available to pre-order next week, but we're expecting devices from Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and other partners. It's also unclear when the first Googlebooks will actually start shipping.

Google has also set up a new website that currently shows the Googlebook branding, a few teasers, and the September 21 pre-order date.

The company is highlighting some of the key Googlebook features on the page as well, with a heavy focus on Gemini. One of those is Magic Pointer, which lets you access Gemini directly through the pointer on your Googlebook. You'll also be able to create your own widgets simply by describing what you want.

Google is also positioning Googlebooks as the perfect companion for Android phones. Users will be able to open apps from their Android phone directly on a Googlebook, as well as access files stored on their phone from the laptop.

Googlebooks will be the first laptops built on Google's new Android-based technology stack rather than ChromeOS. Interestingly, Google still hasn't revealed the official marketing name for the operating system that will power Googlebooks, but we expect to learn much more as pre-orders open.

It'll also be interesting to see how Googlebooks fare in an increasingly crowded laptop market, especially with new RTX Spark-powered laptops on the way and RAM prices continuing to rise.

What you need to know

• Google will showcase its new Googlebook platform at an in-person media event in New York City on September 15.
• The event will include a keynote detailing Googlebook's software, Gemini features, and native Android codebase.
• Google will also have hands-on stations featuring Googlebook hardware from partners like Lenovo, ASUS, and HP.

Google has confirmed that it will host an in-person media preview for its new Googlebook platform in New York City on September 15, 2026.

At The Android Show earlier this year, alongside announcing Android 17, Google also gave us our first look at its new lineup of premium laptops called Googlebooks.

At the time, the company didn't reveal too many details, apart from confirming that these laptops are being built from the ground up for Gemini Intelligence. Google also showcased a few interesting features, including the ability to create your own widgets using Gemini, Magic Pointer, and deeper integration with Android phones.

But since then, Google has remained quiet about Googlebook. The company didn't share much about the platform during the recent Pixel 11 launch either, only confirming that we'd hear more about the laptops this fall alongside hardware partners like Lenovo, ASUS, HP, and others.

Thankfully, we now know exactly when that's happening.

Google is finally ready to talk more about Googlebooks

Chrome Unboxed has received an official invite from Google for an in-person Googlebook showcase in New York City on September 15.

According to the publication, Google has also shared an itinerary for the event, which includes a keynote from Google leadership introducing the new computing platform, its software features, and the native Android codebase powering Googlebooks.

There will also reportedly be hands-on stations from Google's OEM partners, which presumably means we'll finally get to see some of the actual Googlebook hardware coming from companies like Lenovo, ASUS, HP, and others.

So there you have it. We finally have a date for when Google plans to properly unveil Googlebook, and it's now less than a month away.

Leaks have already given us an early look at some of Lenovo's upcoming Googlebooks. The new laptops are also expected to feature Google's HiLight LED bar, the same glowing design element we've now seen on the Google Home Speaker and Pixel 11 Pro lineup.

What you need to know

• A new leak reveals Lenovo's first Googlebook lineup, including two laptops and a detachable 2-in-1 tablet.
• The leaked devices feature Google's new Pixel Glow Bar design and a familiar Chromebook-inspired look.
• Lenovo's 2-in-1 Googlebook appears to support a keyboard case, kickstand, and stylus for productivity.

Lenovo is set to launch its first lineup of Googlebook devices later this year, and a new leak has given us our first look at all of them.

Earlier this year, Google unveiled its vision for Googlebook, a new Android-based laptop platform with Gemini and AI at its core. At the time, the company confirmed that the first wave of Googlebook devices would come from partners including Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

Now, a new leak from Android Headlines appears to reveal what Lenovo has been working on.

According to the leak, Lenovo is preparing three Googlebook devices in total: two laptops and a 2-in-1 tablet.

The laptops look fairly similar to Lenovo's existing Chromebook lineup. Based on the leaked renders, one of them features a white finish with Lenovo branding on the lid, along with what appears to be Google's new Pixel Glow LED near the top. The larger model also seems to include both a USB-A port and a USB-C port, while the speaker grilles are positioned along the sides.

The leak also gives us our first look at Lenovo's Googlebook 2-in-1 tablet. It resembles a fairly typical Android tablet paired with a keyboard cover and kickstand case, with support for a stylus as well. The Googlebook branding is visible next to the trackpad, while the Pixel Glow Bar appears to have been integrated into the camera housing on the back.

Lenovo hasn't confirmed when these devices will be officially announced. However, since Google previously said the first Googlebooks would arrive this fall, it's likely we won't have to wait much longer.

There's also no word on pricing yet. That said, with RAM prices continuing to climb throughout the year, I wouldn't be surprised if Lenovo positions these devices firmly in the premium segment.

We may also learn more about Google's Googlebook ecosystem at the upcoming Pixel launch event on August 12.

What you need to know

• Qualcomm has confirmed that it is working with Google to build some Googlebook laptops.
• Google is also partnering with Intel, Qualcomm, and MediaTek, giving manufacturers more flexibility across future Googlebook devices.
• Googlebooks are expected to support more powerful Android apps and premium hardware from Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

Google’s new Googlebook platform is already shaping up to be something much more than a Chromebook replacement, and Qualcomm just confirmed one of the most important pieces of the puzzle.

Qualcomm is bringing its Arm-based PC silicon to Google’s next-generation laptop platform after years of Snapdragon X chips being almost entirely tethered to Windows laptops, Qualcomm CMO Don McGuire confirmed in a now-deleted X post. However, the folks at XDA were quick to take a screengrab.

This means future Googlebook devices will not be limited to Intel processors. Qualcomm also confirmed on its own social media channels that it is collaborating with Google to build some Googlebook models, though it didn't specifically mention Snapdragon X chips.

Additionally, John Maletis, VP of Product Management for ChromeOS, revealed partnerships with Intel, Qualcomm, and MediaTek in an interview with ChromeUnboxed.

Deep Android integration

This signals a big change in Google’s laptop strategy. For more than a decade, Chromebooks largely lived in the budget and education space. On the other hand, Googlebooks seems to be targeting premium laptops with deep AI integration, tighter Android connectivity, and desktop-class performance.

The new platform was announced by Google at The Android Show, where it was described as a move beyond traditional operating systems to a “intelligence system.” In simple terms, Google wants AI to be at the heart of the entire laptop experience, not an optional assistant sitting off to the side.

One of the headline features is something called Magic Pointer, which allows users to invoke Gemini-powered contextual actions by moving the cursor in certain ways. Google also showed off AI-generated widgets, real-time image editing tools, and deeper Android integration that lets users access phone apps and files directly from the laptop.

While older Chromebooks were very dependent on web apps and light workloads, Googlebooks are expected to support more advanced Android applications and premium hardware designs from companies like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. Pricing could be substantially higher than typical Chromebooks, with early reports suggesting a starting price of around $1,000.

Android Central's Take

Qualcomm jumping into Googlebook is the smartest thing Google could have done here. Snapdragon X chips have already proven their ability to deliver great battery life, cooler thermals, and solid AI performance on Windows laptops. So, it makes a lot more sense to bring that efficiency to Google’s AI-heavy vision instead of solely relying on Intel hardware.

What you need to know

• Googlebook's AI-powered Magic Pointer is also coming to Chrome on Windows and Mac devices.
• Magic Pointer understands on-screen context and suggests actions based on what your cursor points at.
• Google still hasn't confirmed rollout regions, but the feature is expected to expand soon.

It turns out Googlebook's best feature, Magic Pointer, is already rolling out to Google Chrome on desktop devices.

One of the biggest announcements during The Android Show 2026 was Google's new lineup of laptops called Googlebook. Google says these are a new breed of laptops built around an "intelligence system" instead of a traditional operating system, with Gemini deeply integrated throughout the experience. Features include AI-generated widgets, native Android app support, and even a new Glowbar design element.

However, one of the standout features was something called Magic Pointer. If you missed it, the feature essentially turns your cursor into an AI-powered contextual tool. You activate it by wiggling the cursor on screen, and once enabled, it tries to understand whatever you're pointing at.

For example, if you hover over an email, Gemini might suggest creating a calendar event based on its contents. Or if you point at two different images, it could suggest combining them together.

Thankfully, it looks like the feature won't stay exclusive to Googlebook devices. Google has confirmed that Magic Pointer is also rolling out to Google Chrome on desktop platforms, including Windows PCs and Macs.

"Starting today, instead of writing a complex prompt, you can now use your pointer to ask Gemini in Chrome about the part of the webpage you care about. For example, you can select a few products on a page and ask to compare, or point to where you want to visualize a new couch in your living room," Google wrote in a blog post.

Google still hasn't clarified exactly which users or regions are getting access to Magic Pointer in Chrome right now, but since the company has officially announced it, rollout details should surface soon.

My guess is that it will initially launch for English-speaking users in the U.S., although Google could also lock some of the functionality behind its Google AI Pro or AI Ultra subscriptions.

Android Central's Take

Magic Pointer looks like one of the coolest AI features Google has shown in a while, but if it's coming to Chrome on Windows and Mac already, doesn't that instantly reduce the appeal of buying a Googlebook in the first place? Google doing Google things, I guess.

What you need to know

• Google unveiled Googlebook, a new Gemini-focused laptop category built around Android and AI features.
• Google says some Chromebooks may get migration paths, but not every device will support Googlebook features.
• It's still unclear whether future Chromebooks will stay on ChromeOS or shift to Aluminium OS.

At The Android Show today, Google unveiled its new lineup of laptops called Googlebook. However, the company still hasn't clarified what exactly will happen to Chromebooks once Googlebook devices arrive. Here's what we know so far.

Googlebook is Google's new category of laptops built around Gemini Intelligence with Android at the core. The platform introduces several new ideas for desktop computing, including a Magic Pointer with contextual AI suggestions, the ability to run Android apps natively, and seamless access to files from your Android phone.

These Googlebooks are clearly positioned toward productivity users and students looking for AI-focused laptops. But that's also the exact space Chromebooks already occupy today, which naturally raises questions about where ChromeOS devices fit once Googlebook launches.

The Android Central team attended a Google briefing where we specifically asked what would happen to Chromebooks and whether they would eventually receive Googlebook features. Google responded by saying that the company plans to "offer migration options for many devices over time, but not every Chromebook will be eligible."

Google also avoided directly confirming the operating system branding for Googlebook. The company only said it would share more details later this year.

So at this point, Google still hasn't clearly explained what the long-term future of Chromebooks looks like once Googlebook arrives. It's worth remembering that Chromebooks launched in 2021 and later are promised up to 10 years of updates.

What's still unclear is whether those devices will continue receiving ChromeOS updates or eventually transition to the new operating system reportedly powering Googlebook devices, which eaks currently refer to as Aluminium OS.

Android Central's Take

I actually think Googlebook makes a lot of sense. Android and Gemini feel much more modern than ChromeOS right now. But Google really needs to stop creating confusion around its platforms. If Chromebooks are staying, Google needs to be upfront about it. And if Googlebook is replacing them, the company should just say so clearly.

What you need to know

• Googlebook laptops are built around Gemini AI with deep system-wide AI integration across the experience.
• Magic Pointer lets users trigger Gemini actions contextually just by hovering over on-screen elements.
• Googlebook can run Android phone apps directly and access files without manual transfers or emulation.
• Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo will launch the first Googlebook laptops later this fall.

It's been over 15 years since the first Chromebook was announced, and a lot about laptops and desktop operating systems has changed since then. Google is now taking things in a completely new direction with what it calls a new category of laptops: Googlebooks.

Announced at The Android Show, Googlebooks are built around what the company calls Gemini Intelligence. designed from the ground up with Gemini AI deeply integrated into the experience. In the official blog post, Google says computing is shifting from "from an operating system to an intelligence system," and Googlebooks are a chance to rethink laptops.

Every part of a Googlebook is expected to integrate Gemini. One of the headline features is Google's Magic Pointer. The company says users can simply wiggle their cursor to bring up Gemini-powered contextual suggestions directly on screen.

For example, hovering over a date in an email could instantly create a calendar event. Google also says you'll be able to do things like point at two images and combine them together, for example, placing a couch into a photo of your living room to preview how it would look.

Similar to Android, Google is also bringing AI-generated widgets to Googlebooks. The feature, called Create your Widget, lets users ask Gemini to build custom widgets on the fly. These widgets can pull information from apps like Gmail, Calendar, and Drive.

For example, you could ask Gemini to create a travel widget, and it would automatically gather your hotel bookings, calendar events, and things to do into one dashboard on your home screen.

The company is also leaning heavily into Android ecosystem integration. Google says Googlebooks will run apps directly from an Android phone without downloads or emulation.

The laptops will additionally feature Quick Access, which lets users browse and insert files directly from their Android phone into the laptop's file browser without needing manual transfers.

From what we've seen so far, a Googlebook will also allow users to pin apps, files, and folders directly to the desktop, something Android's current desktop mode still lacks. That alone could make these devices feel much closer to traditional Windows laptops or MacBooks.

On the hardware side, Google says it's partnering with Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo for the first wave of Googlebook devices. The company also says every Googlebook will feature "premium craftsmanship and materials" alongside a new "glowbar" — something many initially expected to debut on the Pixel 11 series instead.

Google has not yet shared pricing, specifications, or exact launch timelines for the first Googlebook laptops, but the company says more details will arrive later this year when devices become available in the fall.

Android Central's Take

Honestly, this is a very interesting move from Google. The company is essentially going head-to-head with both Apple and Microsoft by slowly turning Android into a proper cross-platform smartphone and desktop operating system experience. And honestly, Android feels more powerful than ever right now.

With more powerful apps and creator-focused tools expected to arrive this year, Googlebook could push Android much closer to being genuinely comparable to Windows laptops and MacBooks, especially for the education-focused workloads that Chromebooks were originally built for.

Of course, Googlebook will still face tough competition from devices like the MacBook Neo and Snapdragon Elite-powered Windows ARM laptops, but this honestly feels like one of the most promising directions Google has taken in years.

We've heard all about how Aluminum OS is Google's desktop Android project, and it could replace ChromeOS. Now, we have an idea of which devices will actually run Aluminum OS. During today's The Android Show: I/O Edition, Google revealed a new lineup of Android-powered laptops called Googlebooks. They'll be made by five partners to start, namely Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP and Lenovo. And while we don't know exactly what the OS powering Googlebooks will be named, we do know it's build on the Android technology stack.

It isn't just a larger version of the Android that powers your phone — even if it looks a bit similar to Android 16's desktop mode and the Chrome OS user interface. Instead, Google wants to transform the Android operating system into an "intelligent system" with AI at the core. It also views Android as being the singular software experience across phones, watches, tablets, laptops, and even cars. Those are lofty goals, and we can't say whether Aluminum OS will achieve them. If the project succeeds, Googlebooks will be the start.

They'll run the Gemini Intelligence software suite in addition to an Android-based OS, which adds new features, including a fresh take on a user interface element I didn't think needed changing — the cursor. It has gone virtually unchanged for decades, but Google wants to revamp it with Magic Pointer. After hearing about, it has me wondering whether the cursor is already perfect, or if we've been settling for it while something better exists.

Magic Pointer suggests features you didn't know you needed

The desktop cursor is arguably the most important part of a computer operating system — it's often the reason we turn to traditional laptops and desktops instead of using our mobile devices. The precision of a desktop pointer, paired with its ability to switch into a grabber and text selector based on the situation, helps streamline workflows and allow you to do things you couldn't with a finger or stylus. So, does it need changing?

I've been unsure of that, because Google's take on the desktop cursor isn't the first attempt at reimagining the tool we've seen over the last few years. Apple tried something new with iPadOS by adding a circular and contextual cursor that morphs into UI elements on your iPad. It's a way of bringing thoughtful and precise control to a touch-first operating system. For me, it hasn't quite landed, because it isn't as precise as a traditional cursor or as convenient as using my finger.

Google's Magic Pointer for Googlebooks is similar in that it's a desktop cursor designed to transform situationally as you use your operating system. However, the implementation is much different than iPadOS — the transformative nature of the cursor is the only thing in common. Magic Pointer is based on Gemini, and runs on-device to provide immediate suggestions based on what you're doing. It will suggest Gemini-powered actions you can take with content on your screen in real time.

For example, you could hover your cursor over a date, and Magic Pointer could suggest creating a meeting or calendar invite. Use your cursor to select a pair of images, and Gemini could merge them with Nano Banana. The Magic Pointer suggestions are happening quickly using on-device processing, with the final actions (like generating an image) offloaded to the cloud for processing.

It's all part of Google's effort to make AI a central part of its operating systems, rather than a side app you use when you think of it.

It's just one Gemini Intelligence tool coming to Googlebooks

I'm intrigued by the Magic Pointer, and I think it could help Googlebooks stand out. Google-powered laptops, like Chromebooks, have always been about using cloud-based features to limit the amount of processing that's actually done on your device. This is how Chromebooks are able to undercut the competition in price, and provide useful tools with lower-end hardware. Googlebooks are set to use a mix of on-device and cloud-based AI processing to deliver Gemini Intelligence features — right in your cursor.

The simplicity of Magic Pointer might be the most important part. It's harder than you might think to integrate AI features into your workflow. You test a tool like Nano Banana to try it out, but don't remember to use it when trying to visualize a couch in your space. With Magic Pointer, there's an active reminder of the Gemini Intelligence tools available on your Googlebook. Some people might not like how much AI is built into a feature as basic as the desktop cursor, but others will love it.